Instagram has released the new Edits app as a direct rival to the TikTok-owned CapCut video creation tool.

Initially announced in January amid uncertainty over the future of TikTok, Edits offers finer video shooting and editing controls than those offered by the in-app Instagram tools.

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For example, you’ll be able to edit videos and Reels with single-frame precision, make use of detailed capture settings for resolution and frame rate, plus dynamic range. There’s multi-track audio for voiceovers, licensed music and native sound to make editing via the best smartphones a little more fluid.

There are a great array of filters, fonts, AI animations, auto generation of captions and enhanced audio features to boost voices and remove background noise. You’ll be able to switch up the background and even add a video overlay.

You can also capture videos of up to ten minutes in length, which can be edited and shared directly to Instagram at a 1080p HD resolution. Meta also says the app will become a central repository for all of your projects and ideas. Sign-in is linked to your Instagram account, so everything feels seamless. You’ll be able to import items you’ve saved on your Instagram account too.

Beyond what you post, Edits will help you understand how the video was received by the audience. Meta says this will help users “understand what factors affect your engagement” and “plan your next videos based on what’s working for your audience.”

Opinion

Instagram announced Edits in January amid peak uncertainty over whether TikTok could continue operating in the United States at all, unless it sold to an American company. Three months on, it doesn’t feel quite as fraught. TikTok has received a reprieve from Trump’s mob – at least for now.  However, for Instagram creators, I’m sure Edits will be a valuable resource for honing their craft via the platform.