Instagram is currently testing a new feature that may prevent some users from quickly scrolling past ads to watch content. This feature, which resembles YouTube’s ad strategy, requires users to sit through advertisements before watching videos. Only a select few users have reported seeing this feature on Instagram, which displays a counter at the bottom of the screen labeled “ad break.”
According to social media posts, scrolling past this feature results in a text box explaining that users may need to view an ad before continuing to browse. While these ads are currently unskippable, they may become a permanent addition to the app if testing is successful. Instagram has been experimenting with new features, such as Reels, which have shifted the platform’s focus towards short-form video content rather than traditional photo posts.
These changes, along with Reels’ success, have positioned Instagram as a strong competitor to TikTok. By incorporating features from other social media platforms, Instagram aims to cater to a wider range of users and advertisers. Although the app has faced some criticism for these changes, they have ultimately resulted in significant growth and downloads, solidifying Instagram’s position as a top social media platform.