Instagram is developing a feature called “Spins” for its Reels platform, a short-form video format similar to TikTok, the company has confirmed to TechCrunch.
This feature, initially discovered by reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi, would enable users to replace the text or audio in others’ Reels. The app specifies that Spins is currently an internal prototype and is not undergoing external testing.
The Spins feature could potentially serve as a means for users to initiate trends by crafting templates that others can personalize with their own creative touch.
If a particular template gains traction, individuals can modify the text or audio to adapt it to different contexts. For instance, someone might capture a video of their dog yawning and caption it with “Me on Monday mornings.”
With Spins activated, another user could reshare the video and substitute the text with something like “Me trying to stay awake in class.”
According to a screenshot shared by Paluzzi, creators would receive credit for their original Reels each time someone creates a Spin of it, enabling them to expand their audience reach.
The screenshot also suggests that users will have the option to enable or disable the feature for individual Reels using a “Spins” toggle before publishing.
It’s important to note that Spins should not be confused with Reels’ existing “Remix” functionality, which is akin to TikTok’s duet feature, allowing users to appear alongside an original video to provide commentary or reactions. Spins, however, fosters more collaborative and creative interactions.
If introduced, this new feature would offer Reels users and viewers access to a capability not currently available on TikTok.
As Reels closely mimics TikTok’s features, the addition of Spins could set it apart, albeit in a minor way, from its competitor.
As with any internal prototype, it remains uncertain when or if Instagram intends to publicly launch Spins.
