Facebook has been a must-have social app worldwide however as more social apps emerge, it has become increasingly difficult to retain users. As it tries to combat the rise of TikTok, Facebook may be on the verge of giving Instagram Reels a major boost by integrating a new Reels clips display directly into the Facebook app.
Further Details
Facebook is presently testing a new display option for the top of the feed Stories panel, which would allow users to see either Stories, Instagram Reels clips, or in-progress video and audio rooms as an alternative feed display.
That could help increase exposure for Facebook’s new audio rooms, which are currently in beta with a select group of creators and groups, but it would most significantly increase exposure for Instagram Reels, with Reels content highlighted right at the top of the Facebook app, which is used by 2.85 billion people per month.
Of course, Instagram has a billion active users, but many Facebook users do not use Instagram or TikTok. This might be a wonderful way for Facebook to promote interest in Reels by exposing a new audience to the choice, which could lead to increased engagement and general interest in Reels.
To keep users from fleeing to TikTok, Facebook has been doing everything it can to make Reels a bigger part of the platform. It’s still working on enhancing the Reels algorithm to boost engagement and usage, and it’s also working on a new payment program for top Reels creators that looks a lot like Snapchat’s Spotlight payment system for top clips.
The real ace up Facebook’s sleeve here is the potential for exposure and, ultimately, monetization. In terms of users, Instagram still outnumbers TikTok, and if it can extend Reels’ reach to Facebook users as well, that could be an unrivaled and highly appealing audience for those looking to grow a following for their content.
Since late last year, Facebook has been testing Reels suggestions in Facebook Watch and user feeds, but this trial, which is presently not in live testing, would be the most significant step forward to date.
Bottom Line
This recent testing coincides with Facebook’s tactics. Facebook has a history of buying outright popular competitors or transferring content from their primary features to push them out of business, and it appears that the company is aiming to prevent its latest rival from gaining a foothold.
This post is a part of Blogchatter Half Marathon.
As long as we don’t have access to TikTok, Facebook has an opportunity to get ahead. What happens when or if TikTok comes back?