Meta tests series feature for Reels

Meta

Meta is testing a series feature with select creators on Instagram and Facebook to make it easier for users to watch serialized content on either platform. Creators included in the test phase can include both new and old Reels in their series. The episodic content will then be visible in a new tab within their profile. Those who use the feature in TikTok will be familiar with how it works.

When a user stumbles upon an episode of the series in their feed or Reels tab, they will see an option to tap to view other episodes from the series. They can also save a series to watch later or to keep up to date with future episodes. Meta told TechCrunch it is considering ways to monetize the feature, but it hasn’t provided details on how that would be implemented.

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Instagram unveils real-time Instants feature

Credit: Instagram

Instagram launched Instants, a new real-time photo-sharing feature and standalone companion app designed for spontaneous sharing with Close Friends and mutual followers. Available globally starting today, Instants allows users to snap unedited, real-time photos directly from their Instagram inbox or a dedicated app. To ensure authenticity, photos cannot be uploaded from a phone's gallery and will disappear immediately after being viewed, or within 24 hours if left unopened.

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Instagram Edits to get Android-exclusive tools

Google, Meta

Aside from optimizing the main app experience, Google and Meta promise to introduce new tools to Instagram's Edits app. They promise to turn "raw footage into polished content in seconds" by using on-device AI. A couple of the upgrades include "smart enhance" and "sound separation." The former can upgrade your photos and videos with a single tap. Meanwhile, the latter allows the app to easily identify and separate audio tracks within your video (such as wind, noise and music), so you can boost the sounds you want and remove those you don't.

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Instagram to upgrade on-device editing on Android

Google

Catching up with the optimized experience on iOS, Google collaborated with Meta to offer the "best of Instagram to our most advanced Android devices." Refinements include Ultra HDR capture and playback, built-in video stabilization and night sight integrations.

Google said it "completely optimized the capture-to-upload pipeline to ensure your photos and videos remain stunningly sharp when you hit 'post.'" Additionally, Instagram is now "fully optimized" for Android tablets. The tech giant hasn't specified which Android devices are getting the features, but we're hoping to hear more about them soon.

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