Instagram to Launch Its Own Video Editing App to Rival ByteDance's CapCut

Meta's Instagram has introduced its new video editing app called "Edits," designed to cater to creators who produce content directly on their mobile devices.

The app, announced by Instagram Head Adam Mosseri, positions itself as a direct competitor to CapCut, the widely-used editing platform owned by TikTok’s parent company ByteDance.

"Today we’re announcing a new app called 'Edits' for those of you who are passionate about making videos on your phone. There’s a lot going on right now, but no matter what happens, it’s our job to provide the best possible tools for creators,” Mosseri shared in a video announcement.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Adam Mosseri (@mosseri)

Instagram's new editing app will offer a variety of features, including tools for inspiration, idea organization, and the option to share drafts with other users.

Notably, it will also boast a high-quality camera and advanced video capabilities like auto-generated captions, filters, voice effects, and AI-powered animations.

Users will be able to create videos up to 10 minutes long, adjust resolution and frame rates, and access real-time performance insights for Instagram Reels.

While the app is listed in the iOS App Store with a release date of March 13, Mosseri indicated it would officially launch in February, with pre-orders available now and an Android version already in development.

However, even if the app hasn't launched yet, many Threads users have criticized Edits for being too close to its competitor. 

In response, Mosseri replied to a thread acknowledging similarities between Edits and CapCut but emphasized the app’s focus on catering to creators rather than casual users.

CapCut Ban Leaves a Gap

This announcement comes in light of the recent U.S. ban on TikTok and its associated applications, which included CapCut.

Over the weekend, CapCut became inaccessible to American users, following the enforcement of legislation citing national security concerns related to Chinese-owned platforms.

While TikTok’s services were restored after former President Trump indicated plans to issue an executive order allowing its continued operation, CapCut remained offline in the U.S.

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by CapCut (@capcutapp)

Eventually, the ByteDance-owned editing platform became accessible, however, the app remained absent from Apple's and Google's app stores.

With the turbulent return of TikTok and CapCut, Instagram’s Edits sought to fill the void for creators seeking alternative mobile video editing tools — reinforcing its position as a worthy TikTok rival.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk's X and BlueSky have both launched their own dedicated vertical video feeds amid TikTok's uncertain future in the U.S.