Instagram is testing long-form videos called Features

Instagram Unveils 'Features': A New Era for Long-Form Video Content

Instagram is diving deep into the world of extended video content with the introduction of 'Features,' a brand-new format designed to accommodate videos stretching up to 90 minutes in length. This significant expansion in video capability is currently undergoing initial testing phases.

As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, the pilot program commenced on Monday, with access initially restricted to a curated selection of creators within the United States. This strategic rollout is not entirely new for Instagram, as the platform has already been experimenting with this long-form video functionality with creators in Brazil.

Tessa Lyons, Instagram's Vice President of Product, and Adam Mosseri, head of the platform, have shed light on the motivations behind 'Features.' The primary target audience for this innovation appears to be podcasters, offering them a dedicated space to share entire episodes or substantial segments of their audio content directly on Instagram.

The user experience for discovering these longer videos is being carefully designed. Initially, these extended pieces will be previewed as shorter clips within the popular Explore tab. Viewers interested in the full content will find a new 'Watch full video' button within these clips, enabling a seamless transition to the complete viewing experience.

The 'Features' format is set to debut on Instagram's mobile application. While support for Instagram on television platforms is on the roadmap, it is planned for a subsequent release. The company anticipates a broader rollout of 'Features' to all users across the US by the close of this year or in the early months of next year.

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