Overview:
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Instagram is currently testing horizontal videos of up to 90 minutes through a new option called Features.
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Creators are able to link short Reels clips to these longer videos, which helps viewers discover full-length content.
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The platform is actively investigating potential monetization methods while positioning its long-form video offerings to challenge YouTube.
Instagram is broadening its video strategy past short-form Reels by running trials on a new format that enables select creators to upload horizontal videos up to 90 minutes in length.
This transition marks a notable change for a platform historically centered around quick, mobile-centric content, highlighting its goal to rival YouTube in capturing extended viewing sessions.
Revealed on October 26, 2026, the rollout introduces the Features format alongside utilities designed to tie short clips directly to full-length videos.
Selected creators in the United States are currently testing these additions following prior trials in Brazil. These adjustments have the potential to transform how creators produce material, capture audience interest, and tap into revenue streams on the platform.
Instagram Introduces Features for Longer Videos
The fresh Features format caters to content requiring extended development time, such as comedy specials, vlogs, interviews, and podcasts. Unlike traditional Reels—which focus heavily on vertical, short-form consumption—Features accommodates horizontal videos lasting up to 90 minutes throughout the testing phase.
Instagram Head Adam Mosseri noted that he previously resisted bringing long-form video to the platform. His viewpoint has since evolved as the company aims to cater to varied viewing preferences without discarding its short-form foundation.
Tessa Lyons, Instagram’s Vice President of Product, has likewise stressed the significance of providing creators with more space for narrative depth. The organization intends for short-form and long-form video formats to complement each other instead of fighting for viewership.
This strategy mirrors Instagram’s wider video aspirations, as the platform works to sustain user engagement internally rather than losing audiences to rival services.
Also Read: Instagram Brings Reels and Creator Shows to Apple TV
Reels Will Help Creators Drive Viewers to Full-Length Videos
A primary innovation is Clips as Reels, allowing creators to connect brief clips to extended content. Instagram is experimenting with an option permitting creators to attach up to eight separate Reels to a single long-form video.
The objective behind this function is to utilize short-form videos as a discovery funnel for lengthier media. For instance, a podcaster could share multiple excerpts from an episode, steering prospective listeners toward the complete recording on Instagram.
Such functionality could alter content planning routines for creators. Rather than treating every clip as an isolated project, creators can produce one main video and extract compelling highlights. Furthermore, the tool aids in retaining viewers directly within the Instagram ecosystem.
Instagram Wants to Expand its Presence on Television
Instagram’s push toward long-form media aligns with ambitions to bolster television viewership. While mobile devices remain vital for surfacing short clips, horizontal layouts translate more naturally to larger displays.
The company has grown its television footprint, evolving its TV app beyond its initial focus on Reels. Instagram now casts mobile discovery as a way to discover content, designating television as the primary environment for watching extended videos.
This tactic positions Instagram in a more direct rivalry with YouTube, which commands a massive footprint in both long-form video and television viewing.
An earlier attempt by Instagram at long-form content, IGTV, failed to secure enduring popularity. Debuting in 2018, the service was phased out a few years afterward, hampered largely by its strict adherence to vertical video, which did not fit every format or viewing context.
The updated strategy resolves that past drawback by supporting horizontal framing and tying those files into Instagram’s established short-form network.
Also Read: How to Make Money on YouTube Beyond Ad Revenue
Series and Live Video Could Create More Opportunities
Additionally, Instagram is building tools to let users construct episodic media. The Series feature enables users to group multiple Reels under a singular thematic episode.
This tool assists creators in assembling multi-part, educational, interview, or serialized content. Having already initiated testing, Instagram plans a wider release for the feature shortly.
The application is also refining discovery tools for live broadcasts, potentially helping creators reach audiences well beyond their core follower base. These steps underscore Instagram’s commitment to supporting a full spectrum of video content.
Monetization Remains Key Question
Extended watch times would open up fresh avenues for collaborations between creators and brands. At present, Instagram has yet to finalize a concrete monetization scheme specifically for Features.
A representative for Meta shared with TechCrunch that the company is investigating various avenues for creators to generate income through brands, fans, and the platform itself, which includes performance-based earning models.
It remains uncertain whether Instagram can successfully establish a viable economic framework. YouTube has operated successful monetization systems for years, giving it a distinct edge over Instagram.
What Shift Means for Content Creators
Instagram’s pivot toward longer videos does not spell the end of Reels. Instead, creators may find success by blending both formats to satisfy diverse viewer habits.
While Feature rollouts remain restricted for now, broader expansion will roll out gradually. Creators will need to assess audience response before overhauling their publishing strategies.
Nevertheless, if Instagram successfully merges discovery, extended viewing, and revenue generation, the service will evolve into a far more comprehensive toolkit for video producers. At present, this shift represents a major strategic maneuver by the platform to back both casual entertainment and deep storytelling.
FAQs
1. What is Instagram’s new Features format?
During its current testing phase, Instagram’s Features format lets selected creators upload horizontal videos up to 90 minutes long.
2. How can creators connect Reels to longer videos?
Instagram is testing Clips as Reels, allowing creators to connect up to eight short Reels clips to one full-length video.
3. Why is Instagram expanding into long-form video?
Instagram aims to increase viewing time, support deeper storytelling, and compete with YouTube across mobile devices and television screens.
4. Will Instagram’s long-form videos offer monetization?
Instagram is exploring creator earnings from brands, fans, and the platform, including performance-based incentives, but it has not confirmed a long-term monetization model.
5. How will the shift affect content creators?
Creators may combine short Reels with longer videos to attract viewers, improve engagement, develop recurring content, and explore potential revenue opportunities.
