Instagram pushing users to turn their Highlights into Reels, leaving many frustrated

Instagram has undoubtedly become a powerhouse, continually introducing new features to keep its users engaged. However, with innovation comes a degree of disruption. And lately, the constant push for users to turn their Highlights into Reels has left many users frustrated.

Instagram Reels, launched in 2020, was designed as a response to the rising popularity of short-form video content, particularly in the wake of TikTok’s success. While Reels has gained traction, the ongoing emphasis on converting Highlights has sparked a wave of discontent among users.

Instagram pushing users to turn their Highlights into Reels

Instagram Highlights lets users curate and display their Stories for longer than the 24-hour expiration date. Highlights are simply collections of Stories that have been categorized and may be pinned to a user’s profile to provide moments a more permanent display.

However, the frustration stems from Instagram’s persistent nudges and prompts encouraging users to turn their Highlights into Reels.

For many including myself, this feels like an unwanted pressure to conform to a specific content format. Users who have spent time and effort curating their Highlights to reflect their unique style and personality now find themselves grappling with the decision of whether to adapt or resist the change.

This constant nudge gives the impression that the platform is prioritizing Reels over other content formats. Therefore, it is evident that there is dissatisfaction among users, especially those who rely on maintaining an aesthetic profile.

No official word in sight

Instagram hasn’t officially commented on this matter or taken user feedback into consideration. Moreover, this feature was quietly introduced by the team. However, I believe that by providing users with an option to choose when and how to turn their Instagram Highlights into Reels would likely be better received.

Furthermore, as noted by SocialMediaToday, Mosseri stated at the beginning of the year that the app’s main focus would be photos in 2023. But the current reports and Instagram’s aggressive push to turn Highlights into Reels suggest otherwise.

The push for Reels should be a collaborative effort between the platform and its users. This way the features that are added will suit the wide range of interests of its enormous user base.

Note: We have more such stories in our dedicated Instagram section so be sure that you follow them as well.

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