New Instagram Reels Feature Uses Secret Codes to Keep Your Videos Private

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Instagram is experimenting with a method that allows you to privatize your Reels using secret codes, providing users with a helpful clue to gain entry.

Even though TikTok’s ban in the U.S. isn’t yet in effect, its popularity has prompted Meta (the company behind Instagram) to transfer some of TikTok’s most desired characteristics and advantages to Instagram Reels.

Initially, it swiftly started enticing TikTok creators using substantial bonuses for Reels, and shortly afterward introduced a pause feature in videos.

Currently, Instagram is experimenting with a new function that allows users to secure their videos with a private password, ensuring only intended viewers can access them.

New locked Reels feature lets you give users a hint

TechCrunch noticed the new feature being used by Instagram’s Design account in one of their recent videos.

As soon as you find the video on the Design page, a button appears, inviting you to press it and input a secret code. After you’ve done so, the app automatically opens its keyboard, allowing you an opportunity to decipher the code and gain access to the video.

Instagram provides an assist by allowing you to add a clue for users to decipher the puzzle solution. If they crack the code successfully, they’ll gain access to the hidden video.

Here, it seems like the “Design” is releasing a video that looks like an unveiling of their presence on the competitor of Meta’s X, which is known as Threads.

Previously, Instagram introduced a feature where users needed to unlock content by performing an action. In fact, as early as 2024, they implemented a ‘reveal sticker’ for Stories which could only be accessed if viewers sent a direct message, revealing time-bound content.

Instagram is further enhancing its platform by making advancements to its search functionality, all while the potential ban of TikTok in the U.S. remains a lingering concern for content creators.

April 4th, 2025 saw President Trump signing an additional 75-day expansion for the bill. This extension gives TikTok until June 18th, 2025 to separate from its main company or face a ban within the U.S. borders.

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2025-04-09 19:51