Meta-owned social media platform Instagram recently upgraded its short video format called Reels with the introduction of multitrack audio. This new feature, which has begun rolling out globally, allows you to add up to 20 different audio clips to a single Reel.
“Starting today, you can add up to 20 tracks to a single reel and visually align audio with elements like text, stickers, and clips while you’re editing in the app,” according to a post on official Instagram creator’s account. “With the flexibility to pair the right tracks with the right clips at the right time, you can express your creativity the way that feels right for you and your audience.”
Previously, Reels were limited to just one audio track. Now, you can create layered and dynamic soundscapes by incorporating sound effects, voiceovers, and even your own music alongside background music. Imagine perfectly syncing a sound effect with an action in your Reel, or seamlessly transitioning between different music tracks as your video progresses. This level of audio control elevates storytelling and viewer engagement.
The benefits extend beyond enhanced storytelling. Multitrack audio empowers you to craft personalized audio mixes that reflect your unique style. Musicians can showcase their talents by adding original music, comedians can incorporate witty voiceovers, and podcasters can repurpose segments directly into Reels.
To use the latest feature, click on the “Add to mix” option and use the built-in editing tools. You can easily arrange, trim, overlap, and adjust the volume of each track to create the perfect audio blend for your Reel. Once you post the reel, other Instagram users can view all the tracks in your reel and add it to their videos using the “use audio mix” option.
The American company’s Chinese rival TikTok still lacks the multiple audio track feature. This gives Instagram creators an edge over TikTok users (or at least for now), who still have to rely on third-party apps to combine multiple audio tracks.
