Instagram has launched a new video editing app called Edits, bearing a striking resemblance to CapCut, the popular video editing app by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance. Announced earlier this year amidst discussions of a potential TikTok ban in the US, Edits is now globally available for free on both Android and iOS devices. While currently free, Instagram head Adam Mosseri has suggested that some advanced features may eventually become part of a paid subscription.
Streamlining Social Media Content Creation
Creating engaging social media content often involves a cumbersome process. Capturing footage, exporting to a separate editing app, adding effects, and finally uploading to the desired platform can be time-consuming. This multi-app workflow can hinder creators, especially those seeking to capitalize on rapidly evolving trends. Edits aims to simplify this process by offering a familiar Instagram-like interface for recording, editing, and directly posting to Instagram or Facebook. While primarily designed for Instagram and Facebook, exported videos can also be shared on other platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Home page of Edits app by Instagram.
Edits’ integrated approach streamlines content creation, allowing users to capture, edit, add sound effects from Instagram’s library, and post, all within a single application. This consolidated workflow prioritizes convenience and speed, valuable assets in the fast-paced world of social media.
Familiar Interface and Enhanced Convenience
Edits offers a user experience that mirrors Instagram’s familiar design, making it intuitive for existing users. The sign-up process seamlessly integrates with existing Instagram login credentials. The home page features five core controls: ideation, saved content, collections, video feed, and analytics.
Saved content in Edits app by Instagram.
The “Stickies” section allows users to jot down and organize content ideas. The “Saved” section displays videos saved on Instagram, while “Collections” organizes these videos based on user-created categories. The video section displays Reels from followed accounts and trending videos, offering inspiration and quick access to audio clips. A built-in analytics dashboard provides performance metrics for posted videos, a useful feature for content creators.
Sticky notes in Edits app by Instagram.
Intuitive Editing Features
Edits features a user-friendly editing interface with a timeline at the bottom and quick access to audio-visual effects. Users can import local audio or select from Instagram’s trending music library. Text effects similar to those found in Instagram Stories are also available. Additional features include narration, captions, overlays for reaction videos, timeline splitting, and camera lens switching for zoom and ultrawide shots.
Effect overlays in Edits app by Instagram.
Edits supports standard and HDR video formats, offers a green screen mode, and includes an AI-powered cutout tool for seamlessly integrating images and videos into clips. Sound effects, auto-captioning, and sticker integration further enhance the editing experience.
Green screen mode in Edits app by Instagram.
Timeline edit in Edits app by Instagram.
Exporting and Sharing
Edits offers export options in HD (720p), 2K, and 4K resolutions with frame rate options of 24, 30, and 60fps. Exported videos are saved locally and can be directly posted to Instagram or Facebook.
Camera capture mode Edits app by Instagram.
A User-Friendly Video Editing Experience
Edits provides a streamlined and enjoyable video editing experience, especially for creating Instagram content. While some features like color grading and multi-camera capture are currently absent, its intuitive interface, integrated features, and focus on ease of use make it a compelling tool for both beginners and experienced creators.
Export options in Edits app by Instagram.
