Overview
- Instagram announced First Draft on Tuesday, Aug. 25, as a built-in Reels editor that analyzes selected clips, finds highlights, trims pauses, and assembles an initial cut.
- The feature is rolling out globally on iPhone and is accessible from Instagram’s camera while recording or from the Reels gallery after selecting multiple clips.
- Instagram says First Draft creates a first pass in under ten seconds and is meant as a starting point users can preview and edit further.
- A company spokesperson told reporters that First Draft “doesn't use AI,” though observers note the result is similar to automated editors from Adobe and CapCut and that building the tool into Instagram keeps creators from exporting footage to other apps.
- Instagram framed the tool as a way to reduce tedious manual trimming and help creators with accessibility needs, and the launch arrived the same day Instagram head Adam Mosseri was due to testify in a high-profile trial over the platform's design and youth harms.