Instagram has introduced trial reels, an innovative feature that allows creators to test their content with non-followers before sharing it with their regular audience. This new tool addresses creators' concerns about experimenting with new content formats and posting frequency.
Key Features of Trial Reels
The new feature offers creators significant flexibility in content testing. When sharing a trial reel, creators can monitor its performance through key engagement metrics after 24 hours, including:
- Views
- Likes
- Comments
- Shares
- Comparative insights with previous trials
How Trial Reels Work
Creating a trial reel follows the standard reel creation process, with an additional "Trial" toggle option before sharing. These trial posts remain private from the creator's main profile grid and Reels tab, visible only to the creator unless shared more broadly later.
Automated Sharing Options
Creators can choose between two sharing approaches:
- Manual sharing with followers after reviewing performance
- Automated sharing based on performance metrics within the first 72 hours
Privacy and Visibility
While trial reels are primarily shown to non-followers, there are some exceptions where followers might encounter the content:
- Through direct message shares
- On pages featuring reels with identical audio
- Via shared locations or filters
Global Rollout
Trial reels began testing earlier this year and are now rolling out globally. The feature will become available to all eligible creators worldwide in the coming weeks, based on positive early feedback from testing creators who report success with new content ideas reaching both new and existing audiences.
After the initial 24-hour period, creators can access comprehensive engagement metrics through the reels viewer. This data helps inform decisions about whether to share the content more broadly with their established follower base.
