Instagram has launched a major update for its Edits app. The app’s latest version adds pre-built templates, storyboards, advanced text customization options, and the ability to pull public Reels directly into the app, making it easier to remix (or repurpose) content (via a Threads post).
Among the most notable additions is a lock screen widget for iPhone users that provides instant access to the camera or lets creators drop a quick shot into the Edits app without unlocking the phone.
By adding customizable templates, storyboards, and lockscreen access, Edits will reduce the friction between inspiration and creation, which could otherwise take a lot of time. These features are a response to creator demands and enable faster workflow. Obviously, this also improves Edits’ position as a one-stop editing solution for creators, positioning it against rivals like CapCut and TikTok.
Along with the improvements to the Edits app, Instagram is also rolling out a new algorithm control feature dubbed “Your Algorithm.” Starting with Instagram users in the United States, the “Your Algorithm” feature shows users the topics and interests Instagram thinks they care about (and shows in the Reels feed), and fine-tunes them by adding or removing interests.
In other words, the feature offers granular control over the content users see. Traditionally, algorithm feeds have been mostly hidden, and features like topics of interest have had only a limited influence on the type of content Instagram recommends to its users. However, the “Your Algorithm” feature promises to change this. The app also plans to extend a similar feature for the Explore page.
If you’re a content creator, the new features on the Edits app will help you save valuable time, improve consistency, and dump your ideas into the app before you forget them. Everyday users, on the other hand, should benefit from the “Your Algorithm” feature by actively tweaking their topics of interest. This should be very helpful for users who find themselves stuck with the same kind of videos in their Reels feed.
The new abilities should push the creative ecosystem thriving on Instagram, while simultaneously addressing regular users’ concerns about the Instagram algorithm being overly stubborn. Expect to see more such additions to the social media app with user-centric customization at its center.