Post Chinese App Ban, Facebook Expands Its TikTok-Style Feature “Reels” To India

TikTok was all the rage and using TikTok turned out to be a trend among millennials. However, along with 58 other Chinese apps, TikTok was banned in India. Seizing this opportunity, Facebook is testing a new feature with TikTok-like style on Instagram in this country, according to the reports from Business Insider. Instagram’s Reels is a tool allowing its users to edit videos with TikTok style in 15 seconds. It can be shared on Instagram stories, sent via direct message, or even uploaded to the Explore tab, Top Reels.

The news started doing the rounds when the government announced the ban on 59 China-run apps including the hottest one, TikTok. Reports have it that some Indian Instagram users have started getting this updated feature and Facebook’s spokesperson also confirmed that they are planning to launch the feature on a larger scale.

They told Business Insider,

“Reels is a fun, creative way for people to both express themselves and be entertained. We’re excited to bring this new version to more of our global community. No further plans to share on launch date or countries for now.”

The rollout of Reels has been relatively slow worldwide after being first introduced in Brazil last year on Android and iOS. Until last month, this feature continued to be expanded to Germany and France.

>>> ALSO READ: India Officially Bans Tiktok And 58 Other Chinese Apps Amid Border Dispute

Meanwhile, Facebook has also announced its shutdown on its TikTok-like app called Lasso. Speculations are rife that it came as a result of the advent of the upcoming Reels.

Talking about the TikTok ban in India, the government seems to find the violation in this app (and other Chinese apps in general) towards the country’s security.

Obviously, TikTok is losing one of its biggest markets when the TikTok ban rule has been officially implemented.