Instagram is testing a new long-form video format called Features that supports horizontal videos up to 90 minutes long, starting with select creators in the United States. The move puts Instagram in more direct competition with YouTube for podcasts and other extended content. The test follows earlier trials in Brazil and comes as Instagram expands its app to television, including Apple TV in the U.S.
Key facts
- Instagram is testing horizontal videos up to 90 minutes in length.
- The format is named Features and targets podcasters, comedians and long-form creators.
- Testing began in Brazil and is now expanding to select creators in the U.S.
- Creators can link short Reels to full-length videos, and full videos may appear on Explore.
- Instagram previously tried long-form video with IGTV before shutting it down.
Why it matters
Short-form Reels dominate Instagram, but many viewers now discover podcasts and stand-up clips through short videos before watching full episodes. By letting creators post hour-long horizontal videos and link them from Reels, Instagram is trying to keep those viewers inside the app instead of sending them to YouTube. For viewers, it means longer podcast episodes and comedy specials may appear directly in their feed without switching apps. If you need to cut down longer footage before sharing, you can trim a video online without uploading it.
Details
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format name | Features |
| Maximum length | Up to 90 minutes |
| Orientation | Horizontal |
| Current test group | Select creators in the United States |
| Earlier test market | Brazil |
| Main audience | Podcasters, comedians, long-form creators |
| Discovery | Explore page and other parts of the app |
| Connection to Reels | Short clips can link to full-length videos |
Background
Instagram has tried to compete with YouTube before. IGTV was its earlier long-form video effort, but it never gained traction and was phased out as the company focused on Reels. The new test comes as Instagram expands its app to television, including Apple TV in the U.S. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Instagram VP of Product Tessa Lyons said the company wants to help both established creators and those without existing sponsorship infrastructure. The report also notes that Netflix and Disney are adding creator content to compete with YouTube. For podcasters who want to repurpose audio, tools like Extract Audio can help turn video files into sound clips.
What’s next
Instagram is expected to watch how select U.S. creators use the format before deciding on a wider rollout. The company said Features is part of a broader push to keep viewers engaged with podcasts and long-form video across devices. There is no confirmed date for a public launch.
FAQ
Can regular users upload 90-minute videos yet?
No. The test is limited to select creators in the United States, according to the report.
Will long videos replace Reels?
No. Sources describe Features as a separate long-form format that works alongside short Reels.
Where can I watch these videos?
Full-length videos are expected to appear on the Explore page and elsewhere in the Instagram app, and viewers can jump to them from Reels.
