Instagram has introduced a new feature that allows users to watch Reels at double speed, mirroring a popular capability already available on TikTok. This update comes as Instagram continues to evolve its short-form video platform to compete in the fast-paced world of social media content.
How the New Fast-Forward Feature Works
The 2x speed playback option is now widely available for Instagram Reels. Here’s how to use it:
Step 1: Open Instagram and navigate to a Reel you want to watch.
Step 2: While the Reel is playing, press and hold either the left or right side of your screen.
Step 3: The video will automatically start playing at 2x speed as long as you maintain contact with the screen.
Step 4: Release your finger to return to normal playback speed.
This simple gesture control makes it easy to quickly scan through longer Reels content without having to manually scrub through the video timeline.
Why Instagram Added This Feature
The introduction of fast-forward playback for Reels addresses several key factors in today’s social media landscape:
Longer Video Lengths
In January 2025, Instagram increased the maximum length of Reels from 60 seconds to 3 minutes. While this allows for more in-depth content, it also means users may want to skip through less interesting sections more quickly.
Changing Viewer Habits
Social media platforms have arguably contributed to shorter attention spans among users. The 2x speed option caters to viewers who prefer to consume content rapidly.
Competition with TikTok
TikTok has offered a similar fast-forward feature for some time. By implementing this functionality, Instagram aims to maintain feature parity with its main rival in the short-form video space.
Potential Impacts on Content Creation and Consumption
The addition of 2x speed playback could have several effects on how Reels are both created and viewed:
For Creators:
- There may be less emphasis on filler content, as users can easily skip through slower sections.
- Creators might focus on making the first few seconds of their Reels even more attention-grabbing.
- Some may experiment with content specifically designed to be watched at higher speeds.
For Viewers:
- Users can consume more content in less time, potentially increasing overall engagement.
- The feature may reduce frustration with longer videos, encouraging creators to explore more in-depth topics.
- There’s a risk of further decreasing attention spans and the ability to focus on longer-form content.
How to Make the Most of 2x Speed Reels
If you’re looking to take advantage of this new feature, consider these tips:
- Use it to quickly scan through longer tutorials or informational Reels, slowing down for key points.
- Try watching comedic content at 2x speed – some jokes may actually land better with faster delivery.
- Experiment with speeding up dance or lip-sync videos to appreciate the technical skill involved.
- Be mindful of your viewing habits and take breaks to avoid information overload.
The addition of 2x speed playback to Instagram Reels represents another step in the platform’s ongoing efforts to keep users engaged and compete with TikTok. While some may see it as a useful tool for efficient content consumption, others might view it as a concerning trend in our increasingly fast-paced digital world. Ultimately, how this feature impacts the Instagram experience will depend on how both creators and viewers choose to utilize it.