Instagram: Can Instagram’s First Draft Make Reel Editing Faster?

While making a Reel can be fun, it can be time consuming to edit multiple clips. Instagram is now rolling out a new, easier method to get through that initial editing phase with its new feature, called First Draft, which is meant to generate an initial cut of your footage. 

What Is Instagram’s First Draft? 

On August 25, 2026, Instagram announced the launch of First Draft. This feature automatically cuts out video segments, eliminates pauses and assembles them into a preliminary video cut. According to Instagram, the first pass takes less than 10 seconds with Instagram’s new widget called Instagram First Draft. The feature is first rolling out to iPhone. It can be used by creators when taking photos or videos on Instagram or when choosing multiple clips in the Reels gallery. 

How Can It Save Creators Editing Time? 

First Draft takes care of some of the repetitive tasks of making a first cut. Instead of having to individually scan each clip that has been selected and remove the pauses the creators can begin by having it automatically assembled and then edit it. This can be helpful if a creator has multiple clips that need to be joined together but isn’t ready to put in a lot of time making the initial rough cut. 

Can Faster Editing Help Creators Post More? 

Though it may make it easier to create Reels it is not certain that Reel creators will post more due to First Draft. Instagram has not said it will encourage more posts per day, but it says it will make editing less tedious and potentially save creators time. If you periodically find yourself with unfinished footage in your camera roll, shooting a first-cut in seconds might be the best and easiest way to actually begin creating a Reel. 

Is First Draft Actually Useful for Creators? 

First Draft is most helpful as a starting point, rather than an alternative to editing. Creators still need to figure out what their Reel should look, sound and flow like. It’s just that it helps them through the initial cutting process quicker. 

Final Thoughts 

Instagram’s First Draft is a no-brainer feature that makes it easier for Reel creators to build their products. It does not automatically generate a finished Reel, but it can cut down on some of the repetitive work in the production of a first-cut Reel. Sometimes writing the first draft is the most difficult.