YouTube Is Tuning into 'Stories' and They're Calling Them 'Reels'

I had the feeling they would do it. When I saw Instagram take it from Snap, and then use it for Whatsapp and Facebook too, it became tangible, something you could take and use if you have a platform with creators who make content as a career path. YouTube is giving creators the ability to create "reels," their name for what Instagram calls "stories." It won't appear on top of the app window at first, but they told TechCrunch that if it takes off they'll consider moving it to a more hands-on part of the app.

They have tested some other changes by opening it up to a few creators, all with the aim to build community, something their creators with large followings often complain about. So it looks as though they are listening. When we look at the "reels" aspect, it seems to be quite different in that you can share a specific shot to a reel you choose, whether it's landscape photography, DIY, or any category you set up for your channel. 

What I think they are doing wrong is to only open it up to creators with more than ten thousand subscribers. This is a massive difference to Facebook and Instagram, and it makes you think they dislike new creators starting out on YouTube. If I am only using something to consume and not be allowed to create on the same platform, it's not a community and follows a well-treaded path of capitalist supply of creator content with advertising and it's demand from the viewers. It's where selling advertising is the main purpose, and not the community or people who use, create for and view content on the platform. 

I think the direction they are moving in is good, and that they'll open it up in future to the people who want to get started on YouTube. If I had the choice I'd rather be on a Google-owned platform (YouTube) than a Facebook-owned one (Instagram). What do you think, will you use YouTube Reels as a way to provide your subscribers and followers with your stories? 

To read about the other changes they are bringing to YouTube, you can do so on their blog.

Lead photo by Seth Doyle on Unsplash GIF used from the YouTube Creator Blog.

[via Business Insider]