Instagram has introduced a new “trial reels” feature for content creators, allowing them to test their content with non-followers first.
This innovative feature provides a safe space for creators to experiment with new formats without risking engagement from their existing follower base.
Trial reels on Instagram
In an announcement post, Instagram stated: “We often hear from creators that they feel nervous about posting too much to their audience or trying out new content that’s outside of their niche on Instagram, for fear of it not resonating with their followers.”
Instagram’s trial reels won’t appear on a creator’s main profile grid, reels tab, or in the feeds of their followers unless the creator chooses to share them later. The feature will help creators test new ideas, genres, and storytelling formats.
Additionally, Instagram creators can track the performance of trial reels approximately 24 hours after publishing, with engagement metrics, including views, likes, comments, and shares.
How to create trial reels on Instagram?
To create a trial reel, creators are required to follow the standard reel-making process. However, before publishing, they must toggle the "Trial" option. Once shared, trial reels remain hidden from the creator's main grid and reels tab, but might still be visible to non-followers.
Moreover, a non-follower can share the trial reel via direct messages (DMs), and it might also appear on pages showcasing reels with the same audio, location, or filter.
The feature has begun rolling out worldwide and will be available to all eligible creators shortly.