Instagram has introduced ‘First Draft’, a new feature designed to reduce the manual work involved in editing Reels. The tool automatically trims selected video clips, removes pauses, and combines the strongest moments into an initial cut, giving creators a ready-made version to refine.
How First Draft Works
First Draft can create an initial edit in under 10 seconds, according to Instagram. Creators can access it through the Instagram camera while recording or from the Reels gallery after selecting multiple clips, with the feature initially rolling out on iPhone.
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The tool is aimed at the early editing stage rather than replacing the full editing process. Instead of reviewing and trimming every clip manually, users can begin with an automatically assembled draft and make further changes before publishing.
Instagram Expands Its Editing Tools
Automated editing is already available through tools such as Adobe Firefly’s Quick Cuts and CapCut’s Auto Cut. By adding a similar function directly to Instagram, the platform is keeping more of the editing workflow within its own app rather than requiring creators to move footage to another editor.
The launch follows several other creator-focused updates from Instagram. These include Replace Audio, which allows users to change music on existing feed posts and carousels, while the company is also developing an AI assistant for its Edits video editing app and testing Series for grouping related Reels into a defined viewing order.
FAQs
- What is Instagram First Draft?
Instagram First Draft is an AI-powered feature that creates a quick first edit of your video by trimming clips, removing pauses, and combining key moments.
- How does Instagram First Draft work?
It uses AI to turn multiple video clips into an initial Reel that users can further edit before posting.
- Is Instagram First Draft available to everyone?
The feature is initially rolling out on iPhone, with wider availability expected over time.
- Can I edit the video after using First Draft?
Yes. First Draft creates a starting point, which you can refine and customise before publishing.
