Observed Signal · Sep 16, 2024 · Technical Release · Source: OnlineMarketing.de · Impact: 4/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Instagram Tests Text on Reels Cover Photos
Instagram is testing a feature that lets creators add text directly to Reels cover images. Spotted by app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi, the option appears as a button labeled 'Add text to cover photo' during Reel creation, enabling text overlays on the cover to clarify the content. The test aims to boost discoverability, especially in Explore, by giving potential viewers immediate context. The rollout is limited to a small group of creators, and Instagram has not disclosed an official release date. The company emphasizes Reels as a core metric across formats, while noting that cover text may be less influential than the video’s opening seconds. Instagram’s platform chief Adam Mosseri has suggested that cover quality is not as critical as first frames, though text overlays could still affect engagement when used effectively.
Technical Release / Feature test by Instagram; potential impact on discoverability and engagement; limited rollout.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- App researcher Alessandro Paluzzi spotted the new option 'Add text to cover photo' during Reel creation.
- The feature allows creators to add text overlays directly to Reels cover images.
- Test is limited to a small group of creators; no official rollout date announced.
- Instagram has identified Reels as a core metric across formats.
- Adam Mosseri indicated cover images are less relevant than the first seconds of the video, but text overlays could influence engagement.
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