Instagram unveils Edits: newest video editing app to rival TikTok

MANILA, Philippines – Meta’s Instagram (IG) has introduced a new app called Edits, aimed at empowering creators with cutting-edge video editing tools, and designed for short-form video creation on mobile devices and features tools like a high-definition camera and a tab for trending audio and inspiration. 

Announced shortly after TikTok briefly went dark due to technical issues, Edits is being positioned as a direct competitor to ByteDance's CapCut, a popular editing app used by millions of TikTok users.

In a video message, IG head Adam Mosseri shared the platform’s vision for Edits. "It's our job to create the most compelling, creative tools for those of you who make videos for not just IG but for platforms out there as we can," he said. Mosseri also clarified that Edits will not include templates and is not intended for desktop use.

IG is currently working with video creators to refine the app, and Mosseri asked for patience as the first version will launch with limited features. Despite this, the app promises to be a robust creative suite for content makers. Edits is now available for preorder on the Apple App Store and will roll out for Android users in February.

This move marks IG’s effort to stay competitive in the rapidly evolving short-form video market, offering creators more innovative ways to produce engaging content directly from their phones.