Let’s talk about one of Instagram’s lesser-known but super valuable new features: Trial Reels.
Instagram introduced Trial Reels a few months ago, but for a while, it was only available to select accounts. Even now, some users still don’t see the option. But if you do have it—consider yourself lucky, because this feature can be a game-changer for expanding your reach.
So, what is a Trial Reel?
A Trial Reel is a reel that gets shown only to people who don’t already follow you. It’s a built-in way to test content with fresh eyes and new audiences before pushing it out to your followers. Once it’s posted, you can get into the analytics to decide: is this the kind of content your audience (and potential new ones) are loving?
This original purpose alone makes Trial Reels a smart tool for businesses trying to dial in their content strategy—but that’s just the beginning.
The Hidden Power of Trial Reels
Here’s a little secret: Trial Reels are also an amazing way to attract new followers, not just test content. As business owners, we know it’s getting harder to reach people organically. Instagram’s algorithm now favors “Suggested for You” content, which shows users posts from accounts they don’t follow, based on interests and past behavior.
That’s where Trial Reels comes into play. Since they’re already designed for non-followers, they automatically go into this “suggested content” ecosystem.
Remember, you will see usually three types of content in your feed, whether that be on Instagram or Facebook. That’s going to be content from accounts that you follow, advertisements – which will will show as a promoted post, or suggested for you. The suggested for you post are just at, there is no money going behind them. This is simply content that the algorithm thinks is something that you as a user would like to see. An example of this is last year, I saw a video that was about how panda bears are clumsy and cute. I really related with this because I’m pretty clumsy like a panda. So, I watched this video and then my feed was nothing but clumsy pandas for about a week. Eventually, I had to click the “X” and tell the algorithm that while I do enjoy an occasional panda video I don’t want my feed to be nothing but panda videos. So that’s a great thing with this trial reel feature.
Tips to Make the Most of It
- Pick content that entertains, educates, or nurtures. Remember, you’re speaking to someone who doesn’t know you yet. So give them a reason to stick around.
- Use older content, refreshed. Have a past reel that did well? Re-upload it as a Trial Reel to test its power with new eyes.
- Drive action. End your caption or reel with a call to action—ask viewers to check out your profile, follow, comment, or visit your site.
Bonus Pro Tip
If you decide to post a Trial Reel and it performs well, don’t just hit “add to feed” when Instagram prompts you. Instead, wait 24–48 hours, download the video, and post it as a brand-new reel. This gives it a fresh push with the algorithm and ensures your followers don’t feel like they’re seeing “old” content.
Final Thoughts
Instagram features come and go, and Trial Reels might not be around forever. So if you have access—use it! It’s a simple, no-cost way to test your content, expand your reach, and connect with people who don’t know you yet…but should.
Try it out, and let me know how it works for you!
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