Instagram introduces Trial Reels for creators

Instagram has launched Trial Reels, a new feature that allows creators to test their material on non-followers before sharing it with their primary audience. The technology, meant to alleviate the strain of audience expectations, provides artists with vital insights into how experimental material may fare.

Trial Reels allow producers to share experimental videos just with non-followers, making it easier to experiment with new ideas, genres, or storytelling forms. Creators can select whether or not to share the content with their followers based on the reactions of a larger audience.

When uploading a reel, creators have the option to select "Trial". The sample reel will not appear in the main profile grid or the Reels page, and it will not be visible to followers unless the creator chooses to share it. Others may still see trial reels if they are shared via direct messaging or linked to shared audio, location, or filters.

Within 24 hours of releasing a sample reel, creators will receive extensive engagement stats including as views, likes, comments, and shares. Instagram will also compare performance data to previous trial reels, allowing producers to measure the success of their material.

Creators can manually share successful trial clips with their followers or use automation. If a trial reel does well (based on participation during the first 72 hours), it can be immediately shared with the creator's primary audience.

The feature addresses a common creative concern: the fear of straying from their specialisation or overloading their audience with too much stuff.

Trial Reels allow producers to experiment with new concepts without compromising engagement or alienating their audience.

"We frequently hear from creators that they are concerned about posting too much or trying out content outside of their niche," Instagram stated in its release. "Trial reels help take the guesswork out of how your content will perform."

Instagram began testing Trial Reels early this year and has since improved the tool based on artist input. Early adopters report positive outcomes, with new content concepts connecting with both new and existing audiences.

The global rollout of Trial Reels begins today and will be available to all qualifying creators in the following weeks.