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Instagram Launches First Draft: AI-Powered Reel Editing Tool

digital · 2026-08-26

Instagram has introduced a new feature called "First Draft" for Reels, designed to streamline the editing process by trimming clips in approximately 10 seconds. This was revealed on the @creators page and aims to enhance viewer engagement by eliminating speech pauses. Users can easily reverse edits, providing flexibility in clip adjustments. The feature is accessible on iOS, allowing users to choose clips from the Reels gallery or record directly through the Instagram camera. After the initial edits, users can either continue to the full editing suite or publish their content right away. Developer Shawn Simon intends to support beginner creators. While similar functionalities are available on platforms like CapCut and Adobe Firefly, those may need manual tweaks. This update follows other enhancements, including audio replacement and profile grid adjustments.

Key facts

  • Instagram launched a new feature called 'First Draft' for Reels editing.
  • The feature automatically trims and edits clips to create a base edit in about 10 seconds.
  • First Draft removes pauses or silences in videos featuring speech.
  • All edits made by First Draft are reversible.
  • The feature is available on iOS only.
  • Access via Reels gallery or Instagram camera by tapping 'First Draft' button.
  • First Draft is not part of the Edits app.
  • Similar features exist on CapCut and Adobe Firefly.
  • Instagram's own example of a quad skater shows the feature's limitations.

Entities

Institutions

  • Instagram
  • TechCrunch
  • CapCut
  • Adobe Firefly

Sources