Facebook introduced Reels in 2020 as a way for users to create and share short, entertaining videos similar to TikTok. Reels are a separate post format from regular videos on Facebook, with some key differences:
Quick Answer
No, regular Facebook videos do not automatically post as Reels. To post a Reel, you have to specifically create and share it through the Reels composer in the Facebook app.
What are Facebook Reels?
Facebook Reels are short, creative videos that can be recorded and edited directly within the Facebook app. Some key features of Reels include:
- Length: Reels can be up to 60 seconds long.
- Music: You can add licensed music from Facebook’s music library.
- Effects: Reels includes AR effects, filters, timers, and other creative tools.
- Sharing: Reels are designed for viral distribution and can be shared to your profile, news feed, groups, or pages.
Reels also have their own dedicated space within the app called Reels Feed, where you can discover new creators and content. Overall, Reels provide a TikTok-style vertical video experience optimized for mobile viewing.
How Do Reels Differ from Regular Facebook Videos?
While both allow video content, there are some key ways that Reels differ from regular Facebook videos:
| Reels | Regular Facebook Videos |
|---|---|
| Vertical, full-screen orientation | Horizontal orientation |
| Up to 60 seconds long | Up to 240 minutes long |
| Creative editing tools and AR effects | Basic editing tools |
| Music library for soundtracks | Upload own audio |
| Designed for viral sharing | Shared to profiles and feeds |
So in summary, Reels are vertically-oriented, short-form videos with creative tools optimized for mobile viewing and sharing. Regular Facebook videos have a more traditional horizontal orientation, support longer runtimes, and lack some of the unique editing features of Reels.
Do Regular Facebook Videos Automatically Post as Reels?
No, if you upload and post a regular video on Facebook, it will not automatically be shared as a Reel. There are a few reasons for this:
- Different aspect ratios – Reels are vertical, regular videos are horizontal.
- No Reels editing tools – Regular videos lack the creative filters, timers, AR effects, etc. that make Reels distinctive.
- Separate composers – Reels have their own distinct composer/editor within the Facebook app.
- User intent – Posting a regular video likely means you don’t intend for it to be a Reel.
So in order for a video to be posted as a Reel, you need to intentionally create it using the Reels composer. This opens up the Reels editing tools and renders the video in the correct vertical orientation for mobile viewing.
Ways to Share a Reel on Facebook
If you want to share a video as a Reel, you need to:
- Open the Reels composer in the Facebook app
- Select your video clip up to 60 seconds long
- Apply any desired Reels editing tools and effects
- Add a soundtrack from the music library (optional)
- Post the Reel to your profile, news feed, group, or page
You can’t simply take a regular horizontal video you’ve already posted and retroactively make it a Reel. The Reels composer must be used up front when the Reel is first created.
Benefits of Posting Facebook Reels
Here are some of the key advantages of posting Reels rather than regular videos:
- Mobile optimization – Reels are designed for vertical viewing on smartphones.
- Virality – The Reels Feed makes it easier for your videos to be discovered and shared.
- Creativity – Reels tools like AR effects make short videos more engaging.
- Music integration – Built-in soundtrack options from Facebook’s music library.
- Originality – Facebook Reels allow you to put a unique spin on video trends.
In many ways, Reels offer the best of both worlds – the ease of sharing inherent in social platforms like Facebook combined with the short-form creativity that initially made TikTok so popular. For brands, creators, and everyday users alike, Reels present a significant opportunity to increase video engagement.
Conclusion
To summarize, regular Facebook videos do not automatically post as Reels. While they allow video content, Reels have a distinct vertical orientation and set of creative tools optimized for short, mobile-friendly video. To share a video as a Reel, you must intentionally create it using the Reels composer in the Facebook app. However, the extra effort is often worth it, as Reels provide more opportunities for virality and engagement than standard Facebook videos.