Instagram is trying to overtake TikTok by optimizing the use of reels. The social network emphasizes this functionality as well as various affiliate tools, at a sufficiently competitive level compared to TikTok, with new tools…
Easy access to music trends on Instagram
Last July, Instagram head Adam Mosseri said that the social platform was working to strengthen its services with more diverse features, including video. As the name suggests, Instagram now offers an “Audio” search tab, with a focus on content creation on the reels, with easy access to the music trends available on the app.
When you search Instagram, you’ll be able to switch to a new “Audio” tab, which highlights the various tracks available for use in the app. Tap on any track and you will see a TikTok-like display of the reels.
Actually, this feature is a copy of the “Sounds” tab of TikTok, which should come as no surprise. But the focus on replicating the success of TikTok with videos turns away Instagram’s original audience, the photographer.
How do I use the “Audio” search tab?
It’s very simple:
- Open the Instagram app;
- Press the “Explore” tab;
- Press the search bar to start a search;
- Switch to the “Audio” tab for audio results;
- Tap any result to see the song’s audio page.
The new audio search tool is another way for Instagram to make it easier for creators and users to engage with music, enhancing their experience on the platform while producing high quality reels for their audiences. For example, last May Instagram began providing information about reels and live content, aiming to help creators get the most out of the app.
Reels vs Tiktok, a brand new fight
As the success of TikTok spread across different age groups from Gen Z, Instagram launched reels in an attempt to reclaim lost audiences from its ever-growing rival.
TikTok’s sound library isn’t just about chart music. Its users are constantly creating new sounds that are sometimes part of new trends, and even independent music artists have found early success. Gen Z often try to ‘jump’ on these fast-paced trends to develop their point of view and become one of the success stories recognizable through the viral TikTok audio.
Make no mistake, Reels offers a wide variety of audio options, but compared to TikTok, it is not a complete library. The new audio search tool thus provides users with an additional way to connect with music and could improve the social experience on the platform.
Either way, don’t be afraid to expand and use both platforms to your advantage. They can certainly trade for each other in a way that can be of tremendous benefit to your business or personal brand.