Instagram Launches Trial Reels for Audience Sampling: A New Way to Maximize Content Performance

Instagram has launched a new feature aimed at helping Reels creators improve their content performance: Trial Reels. This feature lets creators test new Reels with non-followers before posting them to their main audience. It’s a great way to experiment without worrying about disappointing loyal fans.

What Are Instagram Trial Reels?

Trial Reels let creators post content to a select group of non-followers first. This helps them test out new ideas or formats before sharing them with their established audience. Instagram explains it like this:

“We often hear from creators that they feel nervous about posting too much to their audience or trying out new content. Trial reels will be shown to non-followers first. You can easily get a gut check on how your content might perform.”

How Do Trial Reels Work?

Here’s how it works:

  1. Draft Mode: When you select the Trial option, your Reel is only visible to you. It won’t appear on your profile or in the Reels tab.
  2. Performance Metrics: After about 24 hours, you can check key engagement stats like views, likes, comments, and shares. You’ll also see how your trial Reel compares to your previous content.
  3. Next Steps: If the trial Reel performs well, you can:
    • Share it with everyone: Make it visible to your followers.
    • Let Instagram auto-share it: If it does well within the first 72 hours, Instagram may automatically share it with your followers. If the Reel doesn’t perform well, you can delete it without anyone knowing.

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Why Trial Reels Could Benefit Creators

Trial Reels let you experiment without fear of failure. They allow you to try new ideas, topics, and formats with a fresh audience. Here’s why that’s valuable:

  • No Risk: Test content without worrying about upsetting your followers.
  • Performance Data: See how the content does with a new audience before deciding to share it.
  • Broader Reach: Even if your followers don’t see the trial Reel, it could still go viral if someone shares it.

Possible Challenges

There are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Different Engagement Metrics: Trial Reels are shown to non-followers, so engagement may differ from your regular Reels. You may need several trials to understand what works.
  • Potential Public Visibility: While trial Reels won’t show up on your profile initially, followers might still see them if shared.

Availability

Instagram has started rolling out Trial Reels to select creators this week. It will be available to more users in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for this feature, as it could help you test new content and grow your reach.

Final Thoughts

Trial Reels are a great tool for creators who want to experiment with new content. You can test your ideas on a new audience and get valuable performance data before deciding to post. Once the feature is available to you, it could be worth trying to see how it works for your account.

For more information about Instagram’s new features like Trial Reels, visit the Instagram Help Center.