Facebook goes all-In on reels — Horizontal video may be on its way out

Facebook is transitioning to an all-Reels video format. All videos, regardless of length or orientation, will be published as Reels, offering creators a wider range of editing tools and aligning with Meta's focus on short-form video content.

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Facebook will only display videos in Reels format going forward. In the upcoming months, all videos posted to Facebook, regardless of length, will only be published as Reels, according to a statement from its parent company, Meta. The modification aligns with the company's objective of transforming the way consumers produce and watch video content. Over the next few months, this video format modification will be implemented worldwide.

Up until recently, Facebook users had the choice of posting a reel or a standard video, each of which came with its own set of editing tools. However, Meta's recent modification will eventually do away with Facebook's long-standing differentiation between regular video postings and Reels. Rather, a single system will allow consumers to control all video material. This includes removing the constraints on Reels' format and duration.

Facebook now permits users to upload vertically orientated films and Reels with time restrictions. However, Meta will soon enable users to submit longer, even horizontal videos as Reels. Changes to publication and privacy settings will also be included in the upgrade.

According to Meta, the platform would combine audience settings for Reels and Feed postings. This implies that all video material will now be subject to consumers' privacy settings. Users will be asked to check or modify their audience settings when the new system goes online. Whether the target audience is the general public, a specific group, or friends, this tool will assist content producers in making sure their films are seen by the right people.

Additionally, Meta is renaming Facebook's well-known Video page as the Reels tab in tandem with Facebook's significant improvements to video. Meta promises that users will continue to receive tailored video suggestions based on their interaction habits and interests, even with the name change.

Meanwhile, for creators, the video update will also mean access to a broader set of editing tools, including music, effects, filters, and templates — all within the Facebook app.