Instagram's First Draft Feature Automatically Edits Reels
Instagram is introducing a new Reels-editing tool called First Draft that automatically trims video clips to remove pauses and highlight key moments. The feature is rolling out to the iPhone app and works with multi-clip montages, talking-head videos, and day-in-the-life content. Instagram confirmed that the tool does not use AI, unlike similar features from Adobe.
The feature appears within Instagram's camera interface and Reels gallery, activating after users select multiple clips, each exceeding one minute in length. Instagram spokesperson Nicole Rechtszaid confirmed the tool operates without AI, distinguishing it from Adobe's Quick Cut feature, which relies on artificial intelligence to assemble clips based on user prompts. First Draft targets specific formats including multi-clip montages, talking-head videos, and day-in-the-life content.
The announcement arrived on Tuesday, with the feature initially available only on the iPhone app. Instagram positions First Draft as a starting point rather than a final editing solution, allowing creators to layer additional manual edits on top of the automatically assembled reel. The tool's launch follows Instagram's broader push to simplify video creation and compete with other short-form platforms.
This tool could meaningfully lower the barrier to video creation for casual users and smaller creators who lack editing experience or time. By automating the tedious trimming process, Instagram may encourage more frequent posting and experimentation with longer source footage. However, automated editing could also push content toward a