Instagram Launches First Draft Feature to Simplify Reels Editing

Instagram is rolling out a new editing feature called First Draft that aims to reduce the time creators spend assembling short-form videos. The tool automatically creates an initial Reel edit by trimming selected clips and removing pauses.

Instagram announced First Draft through its official Creators account on Threads, saying the feature can produce a first version of a Reel in less than 10 seconds. Creators can then review the draft and make additional edits before publishing.

The feature is designed to help users who may not have experience with dedicated video editing software. Instead of manually reviewing each clip, creators can begin with an automatically generated edit and adjust the final result inside Instagram.

First Draft Rolls Out to iPhone Users.

Instagram is initially making First Draft available on iPhone. Users can access the feature either in Instagram’s camera while recording or in the Reels gallery after selecting multiple video clips.

The tool joins a growing collection of creator-focused features from Instagram designed to keep more editing activity inside the app. Similar automated editing features are already available in other video creation platforms, including Adobe Firefly’s Quick Cuts and CapCut’s Auto Cut.

Instagram has introduced several other tools for creators, including a Replace Audio feature that lets users replace the music in existing feed posts and carousels without deleting and uploading new content.

The company is also developing new features for its Edits video-editing app, including an AI assistant to support creators during the editing process. Instagram has additionally tested Series, a feature that allows creators to organise related Reels into a sequence for viewers.

Feature Launch Coincides With Meta Legal Trial

The announcement of First Draft came as Instagram head Adam Mosseri was expected to testify in Meta’s social media addiction trial. The lawsuit alleges that Meta designed Instagram and Facebook features in ways that encouraged excessive use among children, while Meta has denied the allegations.

Reuters reported on Mosseri’s planned testimony as part of the broader legal proceedings involving Meta and its social media platforms.

With First Draft, Instagram is adding another automated creation tool to speed up short-form video production while keeping creators on its platform.