Facebook prepares for global launch of its TikTok competitor, Reels

With TikTok facing growing problems here in the United States and around the world, Facebook is looking to capitalize on the demise of the Chinese social video app with global launch of Reels. Facebook announced it will launch Instagram Reels, its answer to TikTok, in the United States and more than 50 other countries in a matter of weeks, according to an exclusive report from NBC News.

Last week, we told you about Reels after Instagram launched the public version of the short video app. Just like TikTok, Reels allows users to record 15 second videos and add music from a huge library or record their own background tunes. Recordings made on Reels can be shared via Instagram Stories or in a post. Reels allows you to create and edit short videos clips up to 15 seconds in the Instagram Camera and potentially go viral as part of the Explore page — essentially, a TikTok-like feature. . User can also add effects and music to their reel or use their own.

The global launch of Reels comes as TikTok suffers major blow from governments around the world. Last month, India government banned 59 Chinese apps accusing TikTok of engaging in activities prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India.

TikTok is also facing scrutiny from the U.S. government over its handling of user data and amid larger tensions between the United States and China. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Monday that the United States is “looking at” banning popular Chinese video app TikTok in the wake of the new law in Hong Kong.

According to NBC News, the global launch has been in the works for over a year.