Facebook Reels are short, entertaining videos that users can create and share on Facebook. Reels last up to 60 seconds and can contain audio, effects, and creative tools. Since their launch in 2020, Reels have become an increasingly popular way for people and businesses to connect and share content on Facebook.
What are Facebook Reels?
Facebook Reels are short, entertaining videos up to 60 seconds long that live on your Facebook feed. Reels can include audio, AR effects, timers and counters, interactive stickers, and creative editing tools. Reels loop so your friends can watch them over and over.
Some key features of Facebook Reels include:
- Video length up to 60 seconds
- Audio – use original or borrowed sound
- Effects and filters
- Timer and counters
- Interactive stickers
- Creative editing tools to splice clips or audio
- Captions
- Can be shared to feed, stories, or groups
- Public hashtags for discovery
Reels are designed for creating fun, entertaining short videos that capture moments and ideas. They allow for more creativity and engagement than regular video posts.
Do Reels count as views on Facebook?
Yes, Facebook Reels do count as views. Whenever someone watches the full duration of your Reel or watches it for at least 3 seconds, it counts as 1 view.
Here are some key points on how views work for Facebook Reels:
- A view registers after 3 seconds of watching or if the whole Reel is viewed.
- Looped views also count if they meet the time threshold.
- Views only count from organic reach, not paid promotion.
- Views are counted per account, not per device.
- Video plays without sound also count as views.
Facebook provides metrics on Reel views in Creator Studio, including total views and 60-second views. However, views may not match up exactly with third-party analytics. The view count in Creator Studio should be considered the official count.
Why do Reel views matter?
Reel view counts matter for a few key reasons:
- Reach: Views indicate how many people your Reels are reaching.
- Engagement: More views signal your content is resonating with viewers.
- Distribution: Highly viewed Reels may get distributed to more feeds.
- Monetization: Certain monetization options depend on view thresholds.
While views don’t directly lead to tangible outcomes like sales or email signups, they can help demonstrate interest and traction. For businesses and creators, views represent an important vanity metric.
How are Reels views calculated?
Facebook uses the following rules to calculate and count views on Reels:
- A view is counted after 3 seconds of watching or if the full Reel is viewed.
- Looped or repeated views are counted if they meet time thresholds.
- Only views from organic, non-paid reach are counted.
- Views are counted per account, not per device or login.
- Muted and video-only plays qualify as views.
- Partial shares do not count as views.
Views are calculated from when the content begins playing, either from a click or as it scrolls into the viewer’s feed. The viewer does not have to actively click or engage to count as a view.
Tips for getting more Reels views
Here are some tips creators and businesses can use to get more views on Facebook Reels:
- Use eye-catching thumbnails and preview images.
- Pick trending audio or music.
- Use relevant and popular hashtags.
- Encourage shares to reach new audiences.
- Remix popular Reels with your own twist.
- Post at optimal times based on your audience.
- Promote your Reels across other platforms.
- Pay to promote Reels once traction starts building.
Analyzing Facebook Reels performance
Facebook provides metrics on Reels in Creator Studio so you can analyze performance. Key metrics include:
- Views
- Reach
- Minutes viewed
- Likes, comments, shares
- Saves
- Exits
- Audience demographics
Compare metrics over time and test different types of Reels to see what content resonates best with your audience. You can use insights to refine your strategy and create more engaging Reels.
Monetizing Facebook Reels
There are several options creators and businesses can use to monetize Facebook Reels:
- In-stream ads – Earn a portion of ad revenue from short ads placed between Reels. Requires certain views threshold and Creator Studio access.
- Facebook Reels Play – Earn bonus payouts for Reels in this program. Invite-only currently.
- Stars – Earn tips from viewers through one-time Stars purchases on Reels. Fans can send Stars during a live Reel.
- Brand sponsorships – Partner with brands to create sponsored Reels as part of a paid partnership agreement.
- Affiliate links – Include affiliate links in Reels to earn commission on resulting sales or signups.
Make sure to follow all monetization rules and disclose paid partnerships appropriately. Have fun creating great Reels that both entertain and engage your audience!
Conclusion
Facebook Reels clearly count video views in a similar manner to organic video posts. Any Reel play over 3 seconds registers as a view per account. While views are an “vanity” metric, they help measure reach and engagement. Creators can optimize their Reels strategy using Facebook analytics to drive more views. Monetization options like ad revenue sharing and Facebook Reels Play provide ways to earn directly from popular Reels. Focus on providing value to your audience with fun, engaging Reels and the views and rewards will soon follow.