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Instagram Reels Now Allow Up to 3-Minute Videos, Doubling Previous Limit
Reese Morgan
January 18, 2025
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3 min read
Instagram has announced a major update to its Reels feature, allowing users to upload videos up to 3 minutes long, effectively doubling the previous 90-second limit. The change, announced by Instagram boss Adam Mosseri, marks a significant shift in the platform's approach to video content.
The decision to extend the video length is attributed to user feedback, with Mosseri stating that the 90-second limit "is just too short." This admission comes as a surprise, given Mosseri's previous stance on long-form videos. In July last year, he expressed concerns that allowing longer videos could compromise Instagram's "core identity to connect people with friends."
The update is also seen as a response to the growing competition from TikTok, which has allowed 3-minute videos since 2021. The timing of the announcement is notable, as TikTok is facing an imminent US ban and is set to go dark on Sunday. Instagram's move may be seen as an attempt to capitalize on TikTok's uncertain future and attract users who may be looking for alternative platforms.
Instagram has been slow to increase the length of Reels, with the previous limit of 90 seconds in place for over two years. The company has experimented with extending the limit to as much as 10 minutes, but has held off on rolling out the feature. Instead, users have been able to post longer videos as non-Reels content.
The implications of this update are significant, as it may alter the way users interact with the platform. Longer Reels could lead to more in-depth content, such as tutorials, reviews, or vlogs, which may attract new users and increase engagement. However, it also raises concerns about the platform's ability to maintain its core identity and avoid becoming a clone of other video-centric platforms.
As Instagram continues to evolve and adapt to changing user habits and competitive pressures, this update marks a significant milestone in the platform's development. It will be interesting to see how users respond to the new feature and how it impacts the overall Instagram experience.
