Instagram Reels Adds Fast-Forward Video Feature

Meta-owned Instagram has added a new feature to Reels, allowing users to fast-forward videos at 2x speed by long-pressing on the right or left side of the screen. This update mirrors a popular feature first introduced by TikTok.

Initially, TikTok only supported 15-second videos, but as the platform grew in popularity, it expanded to accommodate longer content and introduced video speed controls.

Similarly, Instagram Reels started with a 15-second limit and now supports videos up to 3 minutes.

With the fast-forward option, Instagram aims to help users consume longer videos more efficiently while maintaining the quick, engaging nature of Reels.

Read Also: Meta Considers Standalone App for Reels Feature

This update also reflects broader concerns about the impact of short-form video content on attention spans and the ability to focus on longer formats.

By giving viewers more control, Instagram hopes to encourage more users to watch videos until the end.

Instagram Reels has drawn heavy inspiration from TikTok, with this feature being the latest example.

The platform has previously introduced tools like Remix, which closely resembles TikTok’s Duet feature.

Tech Crunch