Edits: Instagram’s New Video Editing App
Instagram just launched a powerful new tool that could completely change how you create Reels, and no, it’s not inside the Instagram app itself — it’s a completely separate app that links to your Instagram page.
Meet Edits
Instagram’s brand-new standalone video editing app. If you’ve ever struggled with creating polished, on-brand short-form video content (without bouncing between a million apps), Edits is about to be your new best friend. And the best part? Edits seems to be less glitchy than the in-app reels editing software.
Here’s everything you need to know, including what features are already live, what’s coming soon, and how small businesses and creators can start using Edits to their advantage.
What Exactly is Edits?
Edits is a dedicated video editing app built by Instagram that lets you easily create short videos with more control and creativity than the traditional in-app Reel editor.
According to Instagram’s official announcement:
“Edits gives you more editing control, features, and flexibility while making Reels creation easier and more fun.”
Instead of offering just basic trimming or text overlays, Edits was built to help you create high-quality, on-trend videos—whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or business owner.
And it’s completely free.
What Features Are Available Right Now in Edits?
The app is already packed with thoughtful tools to help you make videos that feel less “last-minute” and more polished, without needing a professional editor.
Here’s what you can do with Edits right now:
Clip Management
Trim, split, and reorder clips with frame-by-frame precision
Easily rearrange scenes to perfect your storytelling flow
Undo/redo actions quickly without losing progress
Music & Sound Integration
Access Instagram’s music library right inside the app
Sync clips to the beat automatically
Layer in voiceovers and sound effects easily
Transitions & Visual Effects
Add smooth transitions (like fades, spins, and zooms) between clips
Apply dynamic effects for a professional look without complicated editing software
Advanced Text Editing
Add animated text anywhere on the screen
Customize font style, size, motion, and timing
Sync text animations with the beat of the music
Filters & Color Adjustments
Use Instagram-style filters
Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation to fit your brand aesthetic
Optimized Export to Instagram
Export your edited video directly to Instagram Reels
No quality loss or resizing headaches
Insights Management
Track performance metrics for videos you’ve created with Edits
See how your videos are performing on Instagram after posting (views, likes, comments, shares, saves, and watch time)
Use real data to adjust your future content strategy without needing a separate analytics tool
So, What’s Coming Soon?
(& Already Being Tested)
Even though Edits just launched, Instagram is already rolling out new features based on user feedback. Here’s what’s in testing or coming soon:
Template Integration: Plug your clips into trending templates for faster video creation
Saved Brand Kits: Save your brand fonts, colors, and logos to apply across videos
Enhanced Thumbnail Editing: Choose or upload custom Reel covers to control your grid look
Multi-Platform Ready Exports: Tailor exports for TikTok, Facebook Reels, and more without reformatting
These updates are designed to make professional video creation accessible to everyone, not just pro editors or influencers.
Why This Matters for Small Business Owners, Creators, & Marketers
Short-form video is no longer optional… It’s where attention lives in 2025 (although long-form is making its resurgence). But for many business owners and creators, the process of filming, editing, and publishing feels exhausting.
Here’s why Edits changes the game:
Saves time: One app for trimming, designing, and publishing
Elevates quality: More polished videos without hiring a videographer
Keeps you competitive: Stay on-trend with dynamic, engaging video styles
Boosts consistency: Build a recognizable brand look faster
How to Get Started with Edits
As of April 2025:
Edits is available for free on the iOS App Store or Android Play Store for users in select regions.
Android users will have access soon as the app continues rolling out globally.
No paid subscription, no watermarks, and no hidden upgrades
It’s fully integrated with your Instagram account.
Pro Tip: Keep your Instagram app updated, because some early access users are getting a “Try in Edits” option directly from inside Instagram when creating a new Reel.
My Opinion: Is Edits Worth Trying?
If you’re serious about growing your Instagram presence in 2025, yes, you should absolutely start exploring Edits.
It offers the best of both worlds: professional-quality results with the ease of use that busy creators and entrepreneurs need.
I will personally be using it alongside other editing apps that I love, such as CapCut and InShot. I use CapCut mostly on Desktop and InShot on mobile, but Edits will now be added to my software backlog and I think it should be on yours, too!
