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 Reels were introduced on Facebook in 2020, they have become increasingly popular. One question that arises is whether users earn “stars” for creating reels, similar to how they can earn stars for going live or posting stories on Facebook. In this article, we will examine if and how users can earn stars for reels on Facebook.
What are Stars on Facebook?
Stars are a virtual currency on Facebook that allow users to show appreciation and support for content creators. Fans can purchase stars and send them to creators during live videos, stories, and other content. When someone sends a creator stars, the creator earns real money.
Facebook Stars operate similarly to apps like Twitch Bits or Periscope Super Hearts. They offer a way for fans to tip and monetarily contribute to creators they enjoy watching. Stars cost between $0.01 – $5.00 depending on the package purchased. Senders can also leave a message with their Star donation. Stars appear as animated icons during live videos or on posted stories.
How Do Creators Earn Money from Stars?
For Facebook Stars received on live videos, creators can earn a share of the revenue from Star sales. This revenue share varies based on the total number of Stars received. The more Stars sent, the higher percentage of revenue a creator will earn. Facebook pays out earnings from Stars once the creator has earned at least $100.
For Facebook Stories, creators can earn up to $10,000 per month from the Stars received on their stories. This money will be paid out once the creator raises at least $300 from Stars.
Can You Earn Stars for Facebook Reels?
At this time, there is no option on Facebook to send or earn Stars specifically for Reels. Unlike with Facebook Live videos and Stories, there is no Star purchase option on Reels. And Reels do not count toward the qualifications to receive payouts for Stars earned on other content.
Why Aren’t There Stars for Reels?
Facebook has not provided an official explanation as to why Reels currently do not have Star support. However, there are a few potential reasons Stars may not have been implemented yet:
- Reels are still relatively new – As Reels were just introduced in 2020, Facebook may still be monitoring their performance and usage before adding additional monetization features.
- Focus is on growth – Facebook’s priority may be on expanding the reach and adoption of Reels rather than monetization at such an early stage.
- Technical limitations – There may need to be additional technical developments before Stars can be integrated smoothly into the Reels experience.
Could Stars for Reels Come in the Future?
While not guaranteed, it does seem possible that Facebook could introduce the ability to send and earn Stars for Reels down the line. Here are some reasons why Stars may eventually make their way to Reels:
- Makes sense for monetization – Allowing fans to tip creators for Reels would provide another revenue stream for both Facebook and creators.
- Consistency across products – Stars are already part of other major Facebook products, so expanding them to Reels would create more consistency.
- Creator demand – If Reels remain popular, creators may start demanding and expecting Stars and monetization abilities.
Other Ways to Earn Money from Facebook Reels Currently
While Stars are not yet available, creators can still potentially earn money from Reels in other ways currently, including:
In-Stream Ads
If a creator is in the Reels Play bonus program, they can earn a cut of the revenue from any ads displayed between their Reels. The more views on a Reel, the more potential ad revenue.
Branded Content
Creators may be able to partner with brands to produce sponsored Reels promoting products or services. Brand sponsorships can be lucrative for creators who produce Reels that align well with certain brands.
Creator Marketplace
Qualified creators can connect with brands looking to sponsor social media content through the Facebook Creator Marketplace.
Affiliate Links
While not directly earning money from Facebook, creators can include affiliate links in their Reels captions to earn commissions when followers purchase through their links.
Steps to Take Now to Monetize Reels
Creators hoping to earn money from Reels on Facebook can take these steps now to build for future monetization:
- Opt into the Reels Play bonus program – This will position you to earn a cut of in-stream ad revenue.
- Create high-quality Reels consistently – This will help you build an engaged audience.
- Partner with brands when possible – This can provide a steady revenue stream.
- Promote affiliate links – Earn commissions driving sales, even without direct Facebook monetization.
- Stay up-to-date on platform developments – Be ready to utilize any new monetization tools as they become available.
The Future of Reels Monetization
It’s clear that direct monetization options like Facebook Stars are currently limited for Reels. However, as Reels continue to gain popularity, Facebook has a vested interest in providing creators revenue opportunities to encourage adoption. While the time frame is uncertain, it seems likely that more ways to earn money directly from Reels will emerge.
Dedicated creators should continue using Reels to build their follower base for now. Then they can fully capitalize when more built-in monetization inevitably arrives. With the rapid evolution of social media, new and innovative revenue streams could develop that go beyond just sending Stars. By actively engaging on Reels today, creators will be poised for future success.