In the coming months, all new videos on Facebook will be automatically shared as Reels, regardless of length or format. Meta recently announced this update as part of a broader effort to simplify video publishing across the platform (theverge.com).
Why Meta is Making This Switch
Meta wants to streamline how users upload video content. Previously, users had to choose whether to post a “Video” or a “Reel.” Once the change rolls out globally, that distinction dissolves. Instead, creators will:
- Use a single upload workflow for all videos.
- Post every video as a Reel—whether it’s a short clip, long-form piece, or live segment (about.fb.com).
What Changes for Uploads
- No more length restrictions: Reels will support whatever length you choose—short or long. Meta will lift the current 90-second limit (theverge.com).
- Unrestricted formats: Both horizontal and vertical videos are accepted. Live videos will also fall under the Reels umbrella (theverge.com).
- Streamlined tools: The upload interface merges video and Reel creation tools into one, giving access to all editing features at once (about.fb.com).
Tab Rename & Insights Integration
Facebook’s “Video” tab will rebrand to “Reels.” Despite the new name, personalized recommendations and discovery features remain unchanged (theverge.com).
The analytics experience will also shift. Video and Reel metrics will now be unified. Creators can still access important data like 3-second and 60-second view counts via the Meta Business Suite (superbsocialmedia.com).
Audience Controls and Privacy
When you post, Facebook will prompt you to confirm your audience settings. Your previous settings for Feed posts and Reels may differ, so this is a useful reminder (about.fb.com). You’ll continue to control who sees your content—your audience options remain the same.
What Happens to Existing Content
Nothing changes to current videos. They will stay as-is on your Profile or Page. Only new uploads after rollout will automatically be classified as Reels (about.fb.com, storyboard18.com).
Monetization and Creative Options
Meta has stated this change won’t affect monetization. Payouts remain based on engagement, so creators shouldn’t see disruption in earnings .
Plus, the change introduces extra creative tools—like music, filters, templates, and effects—to help creators craft engaging Reels (reuters.com).
How This Affects Marketers: A Reddit Take
On Reddit’s r/DigitalMarketing, users shared practical insights:
“Every video you upload—regardless of length, format, or style—will now be classified as a Reel and fed into the Reels algorithm.” (reddit.com)
Other marketers noted:
“Your long‑form content now competes directly with quick, snappy clips in the same feed. Adapt or get buried.” (reddit.com)
This change means marketers must rethink strategies to cater both to short‑form and long‑form audiences within a single feed.
Implications for Content Strategy
- Optimize hook timing: Since Reels favor content that hooks viewers fast, start your video strongly.
- Blend formats thoughtfully: If you mix horizontal and vertical videos, ensure content still works across both.
- Tailor analytics usage: Review unified insights to track view performance for all your posts.
- Audience care matters: Use the confirmation prompt to avoid accidental public sharing.
- Adapt monetization timelines: Consistent posting and engagement remain key to staying monetized.
What’s Next & Rollout Timeline
Meta will roll these changes out globally over the next few months (reuters.com, superbsocialmedia.com, theverge.com). If you’re a creator or marketer:
- Monitor when the new upload interface arrives.
- Explore added creative tools.
- Adjust your workflow: integrate audience checks and optimized intros.
- Watch engagement shifts as your content enters a Reels-first ecosystem.
