Instagram is said to be creating a separate Reels app to compete with TikTok.

Instagram is reportedly considering the launch of a separate app just for Reels, its feature for short videos. This move is part of Instagram’s plan to compete more effectively with TikTok. A recent report states that this new app, codenamed ‘Project Ray,’ could have a design that allows users to scroll through videos vertically, similar to how TikTok works. It is also expected to support videos that are up to three minutes long, giving users more time to express their creativity.

According to The Information, Adam Mosseri, who is the head of Instagram, shared details about this project with his team. The goal is to improve the way Instagram handles video content. The app is hoped to provide better recommendations for both new users and those who have been using the platform for a while in the United States.

This announcement comes at a time when TikTok is facing some difficulties with regulations in the U.S. The app, which is owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, was initially banned but received a temporary extension, allowing it to keep operating until April 5, 2025. The company is also in talks with the U.S. government about forming a partnership with a local firm to ensure that TikTok can continue to function in the country without issues.

If Instagram goes ahead with this new app, it will be its second app release this year. Just last month, Instagram launched “Edits,” a mobile video editing app that is currently available on iOS devices. The Edits app offers a range of advanced editing tools, such as high-quality video capturing, managing drafts, and customizable camera settings. This app lets users choose their video resolution, frame rate, and dynamic range, making it easier for creators to produce professional-looking videos.

While Meta, which owns Instagram, has not confirmed all the details about the proposed Reels app, if it does become a reality, it could greatly enhance Instagram’s standing in the world of short videos. This move shows that Instagram is keen to adapt and innovate in response to the popularity of short-form video content and the competitive landscape created by TikTok. As users increasingly prefer quick and engaging videos, a dedicated Reels app could position Instagram as a strong competitor in this fast-evolving space.

In conclusion, Instagram’s potential Reels app could provide users with a fresh platform specifically designed for short videos, enhancing their creative experience and helping Instagram capture a larger audience. As TikTok navigates its regulatory challenges, Instagram seems ready to take bold steps to ensure its relevance and attractiveness in the video-sharing domain. With significant additions like the Edits app, Instagram is showing its commitment to improving video content, and the standalone Reels app could be the next big move in that direction.