Since the (very brief) US TikTok ban, Instagram has been going all-in on short-form content. If you’ve noticed more updates rolling out at lightning speed, you’re not alone.
Yes, this is the same Instagram that changed its grid size. No, I’m not over it either.
But there’s some promising news on the horizon. Let’s dive into the latest Instagram updates that could impact your content strategy.
Meet Edits – The app that could change how you create
Instagram is launching Edits, a standalone creative app dropping next month—but this isn’t just another video editor. With TikTok’s CapCut dominating the short-form video editing space, Instagram is stepping up its game to keep creators within its ecosystem. CapCut has become the go-to tool for seamless, high-quality edits, offering advanced effects, AI-powered tools, and a creator-friendly interface that integrates effortlessly with TikTok.
Now, Instagram wants a piece of that action.
After months of speculation, Instagram’s boss Adam Mosseri finally confirmed it in a recent Q&A:
“Edits is more than a video editing app, it’s a full suite of creative tools.” – Adam Mosseri
Unlike third-party apps, it’s built directly into Instagram’s framework, meaning tighter integration, native editing features, and insights that could give creators an edge in performance and reach. But does it have what it takes to challenge CapCut?
Why does ‘Edits’ matter?
Edits is deeply connected to Instagram’s core code, meaning it’s not just an experiment—it’s a testing ground for features that could soon shape Instagram itself. If you’re among the first to use it, your feedback might directly influence future updates.
Here’s what it offers:
- An Inspiration Hub – Stuck on ideas? Get inspired by other creators and spark your creativity.
- Advanced Editing Tools – Think beyond basic Instagram filters. Photographers, creators, and marketers, this one is for you.
- Private Draft-Sharing – Sounds like a perfect addition for agencies, brands, and event planners who need client approvals.
- Built-in Instagram Integration – Insights and performance tracking for Reels
- AI-Powered Features – Expect Meta’s generative AI tools, like auto-captioning, background edits, and video resizing.
Oh, and Mosseri also teased a better in-app camera. Yes, please.
Should you jump in?
If you’re serious about staying ahead on Instagram, yes. Early adopters often gain a visibility advantage—just like those who jumped on Reels early. Mastering Edits now could help you ride the next algorithm wave.
Of course, Instagram’s history with standalone apps is mixed (RIP IGTV and Boomerang), but this time, it’s different. Edits is built directly into Instagram’s framework, showing Meta’s serious commitment.
Instagram is testing a grid rearrangement feature
In another exciting update, Mosseri revealed on Threads that Instagram is testing a tool to let users reorder their grid.
If you spent hours curating the perfect feed—only for Instagram to change to that tall grid size—this update is for you. Soon, you might be able to fully customize your grid layout, allowing for dynamic, creative, and strategic profile designs.
No official release date yet, but this could be a game-changer for creators, brands, and aesthetic-obsessed Instagrammers.
Final Thoughts
Instagram is evolving faster than ever, and these updates—especially Edits and grid customization—signal a major shift toward creativity, personalization, and AI-powered tools. With Meta investing heavily in advanced editing, flexible layouts, and smarter automation, it’s clear they want to keep Instagram at the forefront of digital content creation.
For creators, brands, and businesses, these changes offer exciting opportunities. Whether it’s testing new content formats in Edits, optimizing your grid for a more cohesive aesthetic, or leveraging AI-driven tools to streamline your workflow, staying ahead of the curve could give you a real competitive advantage.
Spotlight is here to help you keep up with these changes effortlessly—from maintaining a beautifully curated Instagram feed on your website to using features like hashtag feeds, shoppable posts, and moderation features to enhance engagement.
What do you think? Are you excited about Edits? Will grid customization help your feed? And how will you use these updates to improve your Instagram strategy? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
