Meta will now display all videos on Facebook exclusively in Reels format. The old Video tab will be replaced with the Reels tab. Longer and horizontal videos will also be included in Reels.
Facebook: Meta has implemented a significant change to how videos are viewed and uploaded on its social media platform, Facebook. Now, all videos on Facebook—short or long—will only appear in Reels format. This aims to standardize the video experience for Facebook users and simplify the editing and publishing process for content creators.
All Videos Now in Reels Format
Meta has clarified that in the coming months, every video uploaded to Facebook, regardless of length, will be published only in Reels format. Reels will no longer be limited to short video formats. Users will now have the freedom to upload long and horizontal videos—also under the Reels tab.
This means there will be no more technical limitations regarding video format. Meta describes this new system as offering greater flexibility and uniformity.
Consolidation of Separate Video Tools
Until now, Facebook used two separate systems for creating and uploading videos:
- Reels editor – For short, vertical videos
- Video post editor – For longer videos
However, Meta is now merging these two into a single video editing and publishing system. This will eliminate user confusion about which tool to use for which video type. Furthermore, the video editing experience will become more streamlined and professional.
Unified Privacy Settings
Meta is unifying not only the video format but also the privacy and audience control system for Reels and the feed. This means that if you apply a privacy setting to your video—such as only friends can see it, or only a specific group—that same setting will apply to Reels.
Once this new system is fully implemented, Meta will notify users to review their privacy settings to prevent any videos from being accidentally made public.
Reels Tab Replaces Video Tab
Facebook's main interface is also undergoing changes. The 'Video' tab will be replaced with a 'Reels' tab. The aim is to focus users on Reels, as this is where most time is currently spent on Facebook.
Meta states that although the name will change, video suggestions will continue to be based on user interactions, preferences, and viewed content. In other words, Facebook will still understand your video preferences and provide relevant suggestions.
Reels: Not Just Entertainment, But Everything
This move by Meta signifies a shift towards making Reels more than just an entertainment tool. Reels will no longer be limited to dance videos, comedy, or trending clips; it will accommodate long videos, documentaries, lectures, tutorials, news, and even vlogs.
Meta believes this change will benefit both content creators and brands, as they will no longer need to create videos for different formats. A single format will encompass everything.
Meta's Strategy
This change is part of Meta's broader strategic shift to make Facebook a Reels-centric platform—particularly to compete with the growing popularity of platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Meta understands that users are now gravitating towards faster, more dynamic, and personalized video experiences, rather than the traditional News Feed or Video section.
