Observed Signal · Jun 23, 2025 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Instagram Tests AI Songs & Trending Reels Audio
Instagram is testing new music features for Reels designed to align creators and brands with current trends. A Trending Audio view will highlight songs and sounds that are gaining traction in Reels, including a count of how many Reels use each audio. In beta, a new 'Popular with your followers' section surfaces audios that are particularly popular with a creator’s own audience. In parallel, Instagram plans to allow AI-generated songs to be used as Reels soundtracks, reflecting a broader push toward AI-assisted creative tools. The changes aim to improve content discovery and enable data-driven music choices, helping creators tailor sounds to their communities and potentially boost reach and engagement. The features are in testing and not yet visible to all users, with German-language terminology like 'Topaktuelle Audios' referenced in the beta. Instagram has also been testing related features that expand audio and content discovery across Stories and Reels.
Major platform testing AI music features and trending audio tools affecting creator reach and content discovery.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Instagram is testing a Trending Audio view in Reels showing songs and sounds currently trending.
- The feature includes per-song Reel counts and expands with an additional 'Popular with your followers' tab in beta.
- Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri confirmed AI-generated songs will be usable as Reels soundtracks.
- Beta access is limited to selected accounts, with the feature not yet visible to all users.
- The changes aim to help creators tailor audio choices to their audience and improve content discovery.
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