Instagram Announces “Edits” App Amid TikTok and CapCut Ban in the U.S.
Amid significant shifts in the tech landscape, Instagram unveiled a new video editing app called “Edits” on the same day TikTok and CapCut faced a nationwide ban in the U.S. Adam Mosseri, Head of Instagram, made the announcement on Sunday, signaling the company’s focus on enhancing tools for video creators.
A Response to the Changing Digital Climate
With TikTok and CapCut, both owned by ByteDance, becoming unavailable in the U.S. due to federal regulations, Instagram aims to fill the gap by providing creators with robust video editing tools tailored for mobile use. Mosseri stated, “It’s our responsibility to offer the most compelling creative tools, not just for Instagram but for other platforms as well.”
Availability and Features of Edits
Currently available for pre-order on the Apple App Store, Edits is expected to roll out its first version in February. However, the App Store lists March 13 as the tentative release date. Mosseri confirmed that the app would also become available on the Google Play Store at a later stage.
Edits will empower users to create high-quality videos up to 10 minutes long with 1080p resolution. The app’s features include:
• AI-powered animation and captions
• Voice effects, filters, and stickers
• Analytics tracking for Instagram Reels
Designed primarily for mobile creators, Edits provides a straightforward alternative for those who prefer quick, on-the-go video production without relying on desktop applications or templates.
How Edits Differs from CapCut
Though similar in functionality, Edits is distinct from CapCut. While CapCut is owned by ByteDance, Edits is developed by Meta, Instagram’s parent company. CapCut, like TikTok, was banned due to concerns over data sharing with the Chinese government.
TikTok and CapCut’s Status in the U.S.
The ban on ByteDance platforms, including TikTok and CapCut, stems from legislation signed by President Joe Biden. This legislation required ByteDance to divest from its U.S. operations by January 19. Failing to meet the deadline, ByteDance’s platforms were made unavailable, barring hosting services and app stores from distributing them.
Despite the ban, TikTok has begun restoring its services, citing new assurances from U.S. leadership. However, other ByteDance platforms like CapCut and Lemon8 remain inaccessible.
As the digital landscape evolves, platforms like Instagram continue to adapt, offering creators new tools to navigate a rapidly changing environment. With Edits, Instagram aims to position itself as a leader in the short-form video editing space.