You may be familiar with all of the features that Instagram offers, from stories, to live videos, to reels, and more. Instagram TV (or IGTV) was one of the latest additions to the platform. Many people liked it, and many didn´t, but regardless, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri recently announced that IGTV is changing to a more general “Instagram video” format.
What does this change mean? Simply put, it is the end of separate IGTV branding. All videos will now be shown under the same tab. This change came into effect at the beginning of October. You are now able to find a “video tab” (signified by a play button icon) on your profile, where all video formats live.
This makes it easier to discover new video content since the merge of IGTV and general Instagram videos provide a new playback functionality. This functionality allows users to tap anywhere in the video to access full-screen mode. Additionally, once a video is opened, users can keep scrolling to discover video content from other creators whose content aligns with their interests.
Will You Still Be Able to Share Video Content?
The merge does not affect your ability to upload video content. The only difference is that all videos will appear together under the same tab. Furthermore, Instagram added new trimming tools and filters for all uploaded video clips, and location tagging in videos, which were not previously available for IGTV.
The process of posting video clips is the same, but the preview feature is different. Now video previews are 60 seconds long, with the exception of ads, which only have a 15 second preview window. This change could help generate more interest and engagement.
Updates to Video Metrics.
A useful tool that Instagram updated is the video metrics. This update merged feed post insights and video insights into one combined metric, available for businesses and creators. With this, you will be able to have a broader view of your overall stats.
Instagram In-Stream Video Ads.
Another change Instagram has made is the name of the IGTV ads, which are now called Instagram In-Stream Video Ads. Content creators can still monetize their long-form content and brands can reach audiences with long-form videos. Videos must be no longer than sixty seconds in length if businesses are interested in boosting them.
It is important to note that the Reels feature is not affected at all due to these recent changes on IGTV.
Should You Be Doing Long-Format Videos?
Although the changes made for IGTV don´t affect the ability to share and upload video content, it is important to consider how users will be able to easily find video content. For this reason, as a business, it is imperative to create long-format videos to maximize your engagement and brand awareness on Instagram.
Content creation can be time-consuming and tricky, but with the help of Miss Ink, you won´t have to worry about it. Our boutique agency will provide your business with personalized social media and content management strategies.
From planning content to managing comments and reviews to social media ads, we have you covered. Contact us at (305) 537-6465 or send us a message here.
