Instagram Tests Sharing Draft Reels via Direct Messages

Instagram / Draft Reels via DMs

Instagram is testing the option to share a draft of a Reel via direct messages to friends. When saving a Reel as a draft, users can select who to share the draft with through the send menu. Recipients will see a preview of the Reel but cannot comment on it or share it with others.

Why It Matters: This feature allows creators to get feedback from their inner circle before publishing a Reel. Creators can share drafts with other creators to help validate or conceptualize content or send a Reel that is part of a brand collaboration to their campaign manager for review and approval.

It’s another example of Instagram leaning into messaging, which TikTok is also trying to do with Streaks.