Instagram 90-Minute Videos: What Creators Should Know
Instagram is taking another step beyond short-form content by testing a new long-form video format that lets selected creators upload videos lasting up to 90 minutes.
The announcement signals Instagram’s growing interest in long-form video and its competition with platforms such as YouTube. However, Instagram currently tests the feature with a limited group of creators, so most users cannot access it yet.
What Are Instagram 90-Minute Videos?
Instagram’s new Features format allows selected creators to publish horizontal videos of up to 90 minutes directly on the platform.
Unlike traditional Reels, which focus on shorter vertical videos, Features is designed for longer content that needs more time and storytelling.
According to reports, Instagram began testing the format with selected creators in Brazil and the United States in October 2026.
The new format is particularly relevant for:
- Podcast creators and interviewers
- Educational content creators
- Comedians and entertainers
- Lifestyle and travel vloggers
- Creators producing longer video episodes
You can read more about the announcement in TechCrunch’s report on Instagram’s 90-minute video test.
How Instagram 90-Minute Videos Work
The Features format is designed to connect Instagram’s short-form and long-form video experiences.
For example, a creator could publish a full podcast episode and then share shorter clips as Reels. Viewers who discover an interesting clip may be able to open the linked full-length video without leaving Instagram.
This approach could help creators attract new viewers through short videos while encouraging them to watch longer content.
Instagram is also exploring ways to organise related videos into episodic collections, making it easier for audiences to follow a creator’s content.
Instagram 90-Minute Videos vs Reels: What’s the Difference?
Although both formats are designed for video content, they serve different purposes.
| Feature | Instagram Reels | Instagram Features |
|---|---|---|
| Video length | Short-form content | Up to 90 minutes |
| Video format | Primarily vertical | Horizontal |
| Main purpose | Quick entertainment and discovery | Long-form storytelling |
| Content type | Short clips and trends | Podcasts, interviews and episodes |
| Availability | Widely available | Limited testing |
The biggest difference is the viewing experience. Reels are designed for quick scrolling, while Features gives creators more room to publish extended videos.
Why Instagram Is Introducing 90-Minute Videos
Instagram has traditionally focused on photos, Stories and short-form video. However, online viewing habits are changing, and audiences increasingly watch podcasts, interviews, tutorials and creator-led shows.
As a result, Instagram appears to be expanding its role as a video platform by introducing Features.
There are several possible reasons behind this move:
1. Competing With YouTube
YouTube has become a major platform for long-form videos, podcasts and creator content. Instagram’s new format could encourage creators to publish more of their content directly on Instagram.
2. Keeping Audiences on the Platform
When creators upload full-length videos elsewhere, their followers may leave Instagram to watch them. Linking Reels to longer videos could help Instagram keep viewers engaged within its own platform.
3. Supporting Different Types of Creators
Not every creator produces short videos. Podcasters, educators, interviewers and storytellers often need longer formats to communicate their ideas.
Features could give these creators another way to connect with their audiences.
How Creators Can Prepare for Instagram 90-Minute Videos
Although the new format is not widely available, creators can start preparing their content strategies.
Here are some practical steps:
Create Long-Form Instagram Videos
Focus on useful videos that offer genuine value. Tutorials, interviews, discussions and educational content can work well in longer formats.
Turn 90-Minute Videos Into Reels
Create short highlights from your longer videos. Interesting clips can introduce your content to new audiences and encourage viewers to explore the complete episode.
Improve Video Quality
Pay attention to clear audio, good lighting, editing and an engaging introduction. Longer videos need a strong structure to keep viewers interested.
Build a Consistent Content Strategy
Plan your content around specific topics and audience interests. You can also explore our guide to Social Media Trends in 2026 to understand how changing platform trends can influence your marketing strategy.
Instagram 90-Minute Videos vs YouTube
Instagram’s move into long-form video suggests that it wants to become a stronger destination for extended creator content.
However, competing with YouTube will not be easy. YouTube already offers an established video ecosystem, creator monetisation programmes and tools for managing long-form channels.
Instagram has not announced a general monetization programme specifically for Features. Creators should therefore avoid assuming that uploading a 90-minute video will automatically generate revenue.
For now, the format offers another potential way to distribute content and reach audiences.
For more details, read The Next Web’s coverage of Instagram Features.
The Future of Instagram Video Content
Instagram’s 90-minute video test could represent an important change in its content strategy. Instead of focusing only on quick entertainment, the platform is exploring ways to support longer storytelling and episodic content.
If the test expands, creators may have more opportunities to publish podcasts, interviews, educational videos and full-length episodes without sending their audiences to another platform.
However, its long-term success will depend on wider availability, audience engagement, creator tools and monetisation opportunities.
For now, creators should continue producing quality Reels while preparing longer content that can be adapted to new video formats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Instagram videos now be 90 minutes long?
Instagram is testing a new format called Features that allows selected creators to upload horizontal videos of up to 90 minutes. It is not yet available to all users.
2. What is Instagram Features?
Features is a long-form video format being tested by Instagram. It is designed for extended content such as podcasts, interviews and comedy shows.
3. Is Instagram’s 90-minute video feature available worldwide?
No. The format is currently being tested with selected creators in limited markets. Instagram has not announced a worldwide release date.
4. Can creators earn money from Instagram 90-minute videos?
Instagram has not announced a general revenue-sharing programme for Features. Creators should check official announcements for future monetisation updates.
5. Will Instagram 90-minute videos replace Reels?
Not necessarily. Instagram intends to support both short-form and long-form video. Reels can help viewers discover content, while longer videos provide more detailed experiences.
6. Who can benefit from Instagram’s new video feature?
Podcasters, educators, interviewers, comedians, vloggers and other creators who regularly produce longer videos could benefit if the feature becomes widely available.
Conclusion
Instagram’s new 90-minute video format could give creators more flexibility and bring long-form entertainment closer to their existing audiences. While the feature is still being tested, it is worth watching as Instagram continues to expand its video experience.
