Imitation may be the sincerest form of flattery, but Instagram’s actions suggest a more aggressive strategy against TikTok. Instagram’s ambition to compete with TikTok has been evident all along, and this recently implemented feature propels Reels further into TikTok territory – a move that, given the ban, might have its advantages.
The feature in question is the ability to watch videos at 2x speed — and according to Instagram, the feature is in high demand.
In an email to Passionfruit, an Instagram spokesperson said: “This has been a highly requested feature from our community, and we hope being able to fast-forward helps give you more control over your Reels experience as you connect with friends over content you love and enjoy.”
While this tool is useful, having to fast-forward through relatively short videos doesn’t exactly counter claims of brain rot. Still, it makes Reels a more seamless TikTok substitute should the ban come to pass.
How To Use Reels’ 2x Speed Feature
To make your Reels fast forward, you need to do the following:
- Open Instagram and make your way to the Reels section of the app.
- Choose a Reel to watch.
- While the Reel is playing, press down on the left or right edge of your screen for an extended period of time. This should cause the video to begin playing at 2x speed.
- To go back to the Reel’s original speed, you just need to let go of the screen.
