Instagram introduces 'Trial Reels' to help creators test content

Instagram has unveiled a new feature called "Trial Reels," allowing creators to test their content with non-followers before sharing it with their primary audience.

This innovation aims to ease the pressure of meeting audience expectations and provides creators with valuable insights into the potential performance of experimental content.  

With Trial Reels, creators can exclusively share experimental videos with non-followers, encouraging them to explore new ideas, formats, or storytelling approaches. Feedback from a broader audience enables creators to make informed decisions about whether to release the content to their followers.  

To use this feature, creators can activate the "Trial" option when uploading a reel. Trial Reels will not appear on the creator's main profile grid or Reels tab and will remain hidden from followers unless explicitly shared. However, these reels might still reach others through direct messages or if connected to shared audio, locations, or filters.  

Creators receive detailed engagement metrics approximately 24 hours after posting a Trial Reel. These insights include data on views, likes, comments, and shares. Additionally, Instagram offers comparisons with previous trial performances, aiding creators in evaluating the success of their content.  

Creators can manually decide to share well-performing trial reels with their followers or choose an automated option. If a trial reel garners significant engagement within its first 72 hours, it can automatically be made visible to the creator's main audience.  

This feature addresses a frequent concern among creators: the hesitation to experiment outside their niche or inundate followers with content. By offering a low-risk environment for creativity, Trial Reels help creators maintain engagement while exploring fresh ideas.  

Instagram, which began testing Trial Reels earlier this year, has refined the feature based on user feedback. Early users have reported success, with experimental content resonating well with both new viewers and existing audiences.  

The global rollout of Trial Reels starts today, and eligible creators will gain access in the coming weeks.