Instagram is constantly testing new features and tools to improve the user experience on their platform. Their latest test focuses on enhancing how users view reels by giving them an option to enter a "Clear Mode."
When viewing reels, users are normally presented with a number of different user interface elements. This includes a description of the reel, various comment and share options, along with buttons to like, comment or save the video. For some, all of these on-screen features can become distracting and take away from actually watching the reel content itself.
In response, Instagram is trialling a new "Clear Mode" that can be activated by long pressing on a reel video. Once engaged, this mode will hide all of the various buttons, descriptions and other on-screen interface elements. The goal is to provide users with a cleaner, more streamlined viewing experience where the full focus is only on the reel video playing.
So far, Clear Mode can only be enabled for individual reels one at a time. After swiping to the next video, the UI elements will return. But it seems Instagram is testing this as a way to give users an option for a more immersive viewing experience without distractions covering parts of the screen.
Other platforms have introduced similar clear display options. On TikTok, long pressing a video will hide all overlaid text and buttons so the full video takes up the screen. This allows users to better appreciate video and audio content without interference. It's clear Instagram sees the value in providing such an option based on its competitors already offering this functionality.
As the test continues, it will be interesting to see if Instagram eventually adds the ability to keep Clear Mode engaged across multiple consecutive reel views. Many users enjoy binge watching multiple short videos in a row and this could enhance that experience. The test also doesn't yet include the option to mute sound, which TikTok's clear view incorporates.
Whether the feature rolls out more widely will depend on how the trial performs. User feedback will be important in refining how Clear Mode works. But given the growing emphasis on video, it makes sense for Instagram to explore ways to optimize viewing short form reel content without distractions. As new formats like reels become a bigger deal, platforms need to make sure the experience is as smooth and engaging as possible.
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