Instagram will let you watch Reels at twice the speed

Engadget - Mar 28th, 2025

Instagram has introduced a new feature allowing users to watch Reels at double speed, accessible by long-pressing the screen edges. Previously tested on select accounts, this feature is now available to all users, responding to popular demand. The update comes as Reels' maximum length has increased from 15 seconds to three minutes, with potential for even longer videos in the future.

This development mirrors Instagram's ongoing competition with TikTok, which already offers similar playback speed options and allows videos up to an hour long. The ability to fast-forward through content aims to enhance user experience amidst the growing trend of longer short-form videos, reflecting a significant shift in how social media platforms cater to changing viewing habits and user preferences.

Instagram Reels Tech Crunch Cnet Social Media Updates Video Playback Speed Tik Tok Competition

Story submitted by Fairstory

RATING

7.4

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a timely and accurate overview of Instagram's new 2x speed feature for Reels, supported by credible sources and clear explanations. It is well-structured and engages readers interested in social media trends. However, it could benefit from a more balanced perspective by including potential downsides or criticisms of the update. The article's speculative elements, such as future Reel lengths, need clearer attribution to avoid misleading readers. Overall, it effectively informs readers about a current development in digital media consumption.

Accuracy

The story accurately reports Instagram's rollout of a 2x speed feature for Reels, a claim supported by multiple sources. The description of how the feature works is consistent with user experiences and official statements. However, the speculation about future Reel lengths reaching 10 minutes is not confirmed by Instagram and remains speculative. Additionally, while the article claims the feature is rolling out to everyone, it may not yet be available to all users, which could lead to some discrepancies in user experience.

Balance

The article presents a balanced view by discussing the new feature's benefits and its demand among users. However, it lacks perspectives on potential downsides or criticisms of the update, such as how it might affect content creators or user engagement. Including viewpoints from industry analysts or social media experts could have provided a more comprehensive perspective.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and easy to follow, with a logical flow of information. It effectively explains the new feature and its significance in the context of social media trends. The language is clear and accessible, making the content understandable to a broad audience. However, the article could improve by providing clearer differentiation between confirmed facts and speculative statements.

Source quality

The article cites reputable sources such as TechCrunch and CNET, which are known for their reliable reporting on technology news. The inclusion of a statement from an Instagram representative adds credibility. However, the article could benefit from additional sources, such as user testimonials or expert opinions, to enhance its authority and provide a more rounded view.

Transparency

The article clearly states the basis for its claims, referencing statements from Instagram and reports from tech media. However, it does not disclose the methodology for how it confirmed the feature's availability or provide insight into any potential conflicts of interest. Greater transparency regarding the sources of its speculative claims would improve the article's trustworthiness.