Instagram's latest editing feature, 'First Draft,' allows you to transform your clips into a Reel in just seconds.

      Every First Draft edit can be completely reversed, allowing you to rearrange clips, modify cuts, or add music before sharing.

      Staring at a stack of unedited videos often causes us to abandon the idea of posting altogether. Instagram has addressed this issue directly by introducing First Draft, a new one-tap feature that quickly compiles your raw footage into a polished Reel in just seconds. Currently, First Draft is available only on iOS, with no updates on when it may be accessible for Android users.

      So, how does First Draft generate Reels on Instagram?

      The process begins just like creating any other Reel. You select clips from your camera roll, but rather than trimming them manually, you simply press the new First Draft button. You can also access it straight from Instagram’s camera while recording.

      Instagram’s model then works through three visible phases: it analyzes your clips, pinpointing the best highlights, and automatically trims everything down. In one notable instance, the tool transformed nearly five minutes of rollerblading footage into a captivating 17-second Reel.

      Moreover, all choices it makes remain completely reversible, enabling you to rearrange clips, modify cuts, or incorporate music prior to posting. Instagram claims that the First Draft feature removes the tedious, daunting initial step of editing, which can especially benefit creators with accessibility needs.

      How does this integrate with Instagram’s other editing tools?

      First Draft is integrated directly within Instagram’s existing Reels framework, so there’s no need to switch to a different app to utilize it. This feature differs significantly from Edits, which is Instagram’s separate video editor designed for more complex tasks such as frame-accurate timelines, storyboards, and AI-powered effects.

      Interestingly, Instagram has not confirmed if First Draft is genuinely powered by artificial intelligence; for now, it is best viewed as a smart automated tool rather than explicitly AI-branded. In 2026, Instagram has introduced several creator-centric features, including Replace Audio and Series, all intended to simplify the creation of short-form content. Whether First Draft becomes your preferred tool will depend on how much creative control you are willing to relinquish, even temporarily, to expedite your process.

      Manisha Priyadarshini is a writer focused on tech and entertainment with over nine years of editorial experience.

      Meta is imposing strict limits on Facebook and Instagram following a $17 billion settlement agreement.

      Teens may soon encounter time restrictions and overnight blocks on Instagram and Facebook. Meta is preparing to significantly alter Facebook and Instagram for younger users after agreeing to a substantial settlement over allegations that its platforms are designed to foster social media addiction. While the settlement amount is eye-catching, the changes associated with it could more immediately influence how teens engage with the apps.

      Meta has agreed to pay up to $17.1 billion to resolve claims from 47 states, Washington, D.C., and several U.S. territories. The agreement prevents a major trial regarding accusations that Facebook and Instagram created addictive features, exposed young users to harmful content, and failed to adequately protect children. Although Meta denies any wrongdoing, it has committed to a comprehensive range of restrictions and safeguards.

      Meta has recently settled a significant $17 billion lawsuit regarding social media addiction in California and other states. Attorneys general from California, Colorado, Kentucky, and New Jersey accused the company of intentionally making its platforms (Facebook and Instagram) addictive and causing harm to children.

      WhatsApp is implementing major changes to enhance account security, adding new measures to block unwanted access. The messaging app has unveiled three upgrades focused on account security, addressing everything from two-step verification to calls from unknown numbers. WhatsApp is also expanding its support for passkeys, which have already been set up by over a billion users. The most critical change is a significant enhancement to WhatsApp's two-step verification system. That six-digit PIN is about to receive a substantial upgrade.