Does X Have Reels or Short-Form Video Features
Learn whether X offers reels or short‑form vertical video features, how its video tools compare to Instagram Reels, and possible reasons for the difference.
Introduction: The Rise of Reels in Social Media
Short‑form vertical video content—commonly referred to as Reels—has rapidly emerged as one of the most influential trends in social media marketing. Designed to boost discoverability, showcase creativity, and keep users engaged, reels have become a staple for platforms like TikTok and Instagram. These immersive clips dominate feeds and offer brands and creators an authentic, bite‑sized way to connect with audiences.
However, not every social platform has adopted this popular format. That leaves many users wondering: does X have reels? This article examines the evolution of reels, compares platform features, and explores what the future may hold for short‑form video on X (formerly Twitter).
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What Are Reels?
Reels are short‑form vertical videos, typically between 15 and 90 seconds long, that deliver content in a fast, mobile‑friendly format. Their defining attributes include:
- Vertical aspect ratio (9:16) for seamless mobile viewing.
- Immersive full‑screen playback.
- Integration of music, augmented reality (AR) effects, and dynamic text overlays.
- Built‑in shareability, boosted by hashtags and algorithmic distribution.
The purpose of reels is to deliver creative, easily digestible content that encourages quick engagement in the form of likes, comments, and shares, helping posts reach viral status.
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A Brief History of Reels
TikTok spearheaded the global short‑form video movement in 2017, following its merger with Musical.ly. It combined music, rapid‑fire editing, and strong algorithmic promotion, creating an addictive content loop.
Instagram responded in August 2020 by launching its own “Reels” feature, designed to compete directly with TikTok. Shortly after:
- Facebook integrated Reels into its main app and Messenger.
- YouTube Shorts debuted in 2021, offering creators a space for vertical video clips.
These developments underscore the increasing importance of short‑form video formats in modern social engagement strategies.
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Does X (Formerly Twitter) Have a Reels Feature?
As of early 2024, X does not have a dedicated reels feature. While users can post videos within tweets, replies, and direct messages, the platform lacks a specialized short‑form vertical feed similar to Instagram’s Reels tab or TikTok’s “For You Page.”
X’s current video capabilities include:
- Video tweets up to 2 minutes 20 seconds for standard accounts (longer for premium members).
- Support for both vertical and horizontal orientations.
- Playback embedded in the timeline rather than a full‑screen scrolling feed.
The company has made no official announcement regarding a future reels‑style rollout, despite periodically experimenting with enhanced video tools.
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How X Handles Video Content Compared to Reels
Instead of creating a standalone short‑form feed, X integrates video into its core timeline. This approach diverges notably from how Instagram handles reels.
| Feature | X | Instagram Reels |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Any orientation (vertical/horizontal) | Primarily vertical 9:16 |
| Feed Type | Integrated timeline with mixed media | Dedicated reels feed |
| Discovery | Hashtags, retweets | Algorithm‑driven reels tab |
| Editing Tools | Basic trimming and captions | Advanced filters, effects, audio syncing |
Additional X video‑friendly features include:
- Communities – Niche spaces where videos can be shared.
- Spaces – Live audio discussions that can complement video sharing.
- GIF Support – For quick, looping visual engagement.
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Possible Reasons X Does Not Have a Reels Format
Reasons X may be avoiding a dedicated reels feed include:
- Platform Identity – Historically text‑ and conversation‑centric.
- Resource Prioritization – Focusing development on monetization, AI, and subscription products.
- Audience Preferences – Core users may prefer news, commentary, and discussions over pure entertainment.
- Market Saturation – TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube dominate short‑form video, making late adoption risky.
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Comparison: X vs Other Short‑Form Video Platforms
| Platform | Has Reels/Short‑Form Video? | Discovery Algorithm Quality | Monetization Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| X | No dedicated feature | Moderate (hashtags/engagement) | Ad revenue share for long videos, tips |
| Yes (Reels) | High | Bonus payouts, brand partnerships | |
| Yes (Reels) | High | Creator bonuses, ad revenue | |
| TikTok | Yes (TikTok videos) | Very high | Creator fund, live gifting, ads |
| YouTube | Yes (Shorts) | High | Revenue sharing, memberships |
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Potential Benefits If X Introduced Reels
If X launched a reels‑style feature, potential advantages could include:
- Higher Engagement Rates through interactive, snackable content.
- Expanded Audience Reach via algorithmic distribution.
- New Monetization Channels leveraging vertical video ads.
- Increased Competitive Appeal for younger, video‑centric demographics.
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Alternatives to Reels on X for Creators
Until reels arrive, creators can maximize X’s current options:
- Video Tweets for vertical clips pinned to profiles.
- Threaded Storytelling mixing text insights with embedded videos.
- GIFs and Memes for quick, shareable comedy or commentary.
- Livestreams to engage audiences in real‑time events or Q&A sessions.
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Will X Launch Reels in the Future?
Industry speculation suggests that X could eventually implement a short‑form vertical feed to remain competitive. Whether this happens will depend on:
- Audience demand for quick, discoverable video.
- Platform infrastructure capable of supporting high volumes of vertical content.
- Alignment with X’s long‑term brand and content strategies.
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Tips for Cross‑Platform Reel Strategy Using X
Even without native reels, X can play a role in short‑form video campaigns:
- Repurpose Clips from reels on other platforms as native X videos.
- Drive Followers by linking directly to your reels elsewhere.
- Build Hype with teaser content and behind‑the‑scenes snippets.
- Engage in Communities that welcome and promote video sharing.
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Conclusion and Takeaways
So, does X have reels? — Currently, no. X supports standard video uploads embedded in the timeline, but lacks a dedicated reels or vertical short‑form discovery feed.
For brands and content creators:
- Use X strategically as an amplifier for reels created on other platforms.
- Experiment with native video tweets and multimedia threads for engagement.
- Stay informed about product updates in case a reels feature launches.
Short‑form video’s popularity shows no signs of fading. Smart marketers will continue exploring cross‑platform tactics, ensuring visibility and growth across both reels‑friendly and text‑centric platforms.
Want to stay ahead in social media video trends? Follow industry news and adapt your content strategy proactively to capture every audience opportunity.
