Instagram now has a new iPhone-exclusive feature that can create reels automatically. You just select your video clips and it creates an edit with a single tap.
However, Meta is being extremely careful not to upset creators by implying that the app can replace their manual editing skills …
That caution even extends to the naming of the feature, which is known as First Draft, implying that it only provides a starting point for creative decisions.
Introducing First draft, a new way to create a Reel within the Instagram app. Simply select your clips, and with one tap, it cuts the pauses and trims down your clips, so you have a starting point to build from in seconds. Everything First draft does is reversible, you can adjust or reorder anything before moving on. It handles the early video trimming so you can focus less on technical production, and get to the creative part sooner.
The company shared an example of the process and the result in a Threads post.
There’s even an option to create a first draft edit immediately after filming.
There are 2 ways to access this feature:
1. Open Reels gallery → Select 1+ clips → Tap the “First draft” button at the bottom of your screen → Review edit → Proceed to full editor or publish.
2. Open camera in Instagram → Film your content → Tap the “First draft’ button + Review edit + Proceed to full editor to publish
Some creators are questioning why this is in the main Instagram app and not Edits, and the company has responded that it could make it available in both apps if desired. Right now, the feature is only available in the iPhone app, with the Android version likely to follow.
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