How to use Instagram Reels: Facebook's answer to TikTok now available in over 50 countries

Facebook has launched Instagram Reels in more than 50 countries. The feature, which is similar to how TikTok works, was initially launched in Brazil and India.

Instagram Reels will be available to users in more than 50 countries, including the US, UK, Japan, Australia, etc.

Reels is a new way to create and discover short, entertaining videos on Instagram. The feature is integrated within the Instagram app and will allow users to record, edit, and share a 15-second video, much like TikTok.

How to use Reels on Instagram? Pretty simple.

First, open the Instagram app > Head to the “camera” option in Instagram > Click “Reels” at the bottom of the screen > Select the easy-to-use tools to record and edit your video. 

Instagram creators who want to make Reels can also take advantage of in-app music tracks or use their own custom audio. Users will also have the option to speed up or slow down parts of a video. Additionally, an ‘Align’ option will help users maintain their position in front of the camera. Reels will also arrive with an array of augmented reality effects that can be used in the video.

If you have a public account, you can share your reel to a dedicated space in Explore, where it has the chance to be seen and discovered by the wider Instagram community. You can also share your reel with your followers by posting it to your Feed. When you share reels featuring certain songs, hashtags, or effects, your reel may also appear on dedicated pages when someone clicks on that song, hashtag, or effect.

The extension of Reels comes during the time when the US is considering a ban on TikTok. Instagram is looking to capitalise on its already massive user base along with on-boarding the users who are looking for a new platform as an alternative to TikTok.

The feature was launched in India soon after the government banned 59 Chinese apps, including TikTok.