Instagram just made a bold move with the release of its new Edits app, available now for both iOS and Android. Designed to give creators better control over their video content, this app offers advanced editing tools similar to favorites like VN and CapCut. But does it really stand out? In this post, you’ll get a full tour of the Edits app, learn how it works, what makes it different, and why it might just be your next favorite editing tool.
What is the Edits App for Instagram?
The Edits app is Instagram’s official step into the professional editing world. Instead of forcing users to rely on third-party apps like CapCut, Instagram now gives you an all-in-one platform to create, edit, and share videos with high-quality polish. Think of it as Instagram Reels’ smarter, stronger cousin.
You can download the Edits app from the App Store or Play Store by simply searching “Edits.” Signing up is quick because it links directly with your Instagram account. Once you’re in, you can start editing videos that are perfectly optimized for Instagram’s platform.
How Easy is it to use the Edits App?
One of the best parts about the Edits app is its clean and simple layout. When you open it, everything feels organized and welcoming.
Here’s what you’ll see right away:
- Stickers and Saved Reels: You can pull in stickers and clips you’ve saved on Instagram. No need to scroll through your phone gallery.
- AI Features: The app’s AI can generate video captions automatically, saving you tons of time.
- Create Your First Project: Starting a project is straightforward. Tap the new project button, add your clips, and start editing.
The design feels smooth and uncluttered, making it perfect even if you’re new to video editing.
What Editing Features Does the Edits App Offer?
The Edits app isn’t just a basic trimmer. It packs serious features that make it possible to create professional-grade videos right from your phone.
Video Editing Tools
You can add multiple clips to your project at once, cut and trim with precision, and arrange scenes however you want. Whether you’re making a 15-second Reel or a longer IGTV-style video, the app has the flexibility you need.
Access to an Audio Library
Instagram knows how important music is. That’s why the Edits app includes a library full of trending songs and licensed audio tracks. No more downloading music separately or worrying about copyright strikes. Everything you need is inside the app.
Adding Text and Voice Over
If you want to tell a story, you can easily add text overlays or record voiceovers. The tools for these features are intuitive. You don’t need to be an expert — it really feels like you’re just speaking directly to your followers.
AI-Generated Captions
The Edits app’s AI-generated captions feature is a huge time-saver. You upload your video, and the app automatically listens to your voice to create captions. While the AI isn’t 100% perfect, editing the captions is easy, and you can tweak the font, size, and color to match your video’s vibe.
How Good Are the Cutout and Overlay Features?
A standout feature of the Edits app is the cutout tool. It lets you separate subjects from the background without needing a green screen or Photoshop skills. This makes it simple to create layered effects where your subject pops out creatively. You can then add overlays, stickers, or text to different layers of your video for even more personalization.
Does the Edits app offer video analytics?
Yes, and this is a major win for creators. After you post a video, the app tracks how it performs. You can see views, likes, shares, and engagement metrics directly inside Edits. This data can help you understand what’s working with your audience and plan your next posts even better.
How Do You Export and Share Videos?
After editing, you can export videos in top-notch quality — up to 2K and even 4K resolutions. That’s a big deal for creators who want their content to look sharp and professional. From there, you can share directly to Instagram, WhatsApp, or Facebook without having to switch apps or lose video quality during uploads.
How Do Edits Compare to CapCut and VN?
If you’ve been using CapCut or VN, you might wonder if the Edits app is worth switching to. Here’s a quick breakdown:
CapCut is famous for its advanced effects, transitions, and templates. It’s super powerful but can feel overwhelming if you’re new to video editing.
VN is loved for being fast and beginner-friendly, but it doesn’t always integrate smoothly with Instagram’s platform.
Edits offers the best of both worlds. While it may not have every single effect CapCut offers, it wins because it’s made for Instagram. No more weird aspect ratio problems. No more compression when uploading. Plus, AI features and performance tracking are built right in.
In short, if Instagram is your main platform, Edits could quickly become your go-to app.
Expert Tips for Using the Edits App
- Start Simple: Don’t dive into complex edits immediately. Explore basic features first.
- Use AI Captions Sparingly: Always double-check the AI-generated captions before publishing to avoid mistakes.
- Layer Creativity: Experiment with overlays and cutouts to make your videos stand out.
- Watch the Analytics: After posting, study the performance metrics. They offer valuable insights into what your followers actually like.
- Keep It Fresh: Instagram trends move fast. Keep updating your editing style to stay ahead.
Real-World Example
Imagine you’re a small business owner promoting a new product. Using the Edits app, you can shoot short clips of the product, overlay trending music, add clean captions, and directly upload it to your Instagram page. In just a few minutes, you’ve created polished marketing content without paying for expensive editing software or freelance help.
Is the Edits App Right for You?
If you create Instagram content regularly, the Edits app is worth trying. It’s free, simple to use, and directly connected to Instagram. Whether you’re a casual poster, a business owner, or an aspiring influencer, it can help you produce high-quality videos without the headaches that come with third-party apps.
Final Thoughts
The Edits app for Instagram delivers where it matters most. It’s easy enough for beginners but powerful enough for more serious creators. With features like AI-generated captions, precision cutouts, access to trending music, and performance analytics, it covers almost everything you need in one place.
While CapCut and VN still have their place, Instagram’s own Edits app feels like the future, especially for those who want quick, professional results without leaving the Instagram ecosystem.
If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s a great time to dive in and see what you can create.