Trial Reels Hack on Instagram: How to Access the Feature & Best Tips
Instagram’s new Trial Reels feature is a game-changer for creators and brands, offering the perfect way to experiment with new content ideas without risking your current engagement. Here’s everything you need to know to leverage this tool effectively.
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How to Unlock & Use Trial Reels (the “hack”):
Visit Instagram's [Creators blog about Trial Reels] you can access it here
Click the “Create a Reel” button on that blog page.
You'll be taken to the Instagram app with the “Trial” toggle pre-enabled.
Record/Edit your Reel as usual.
Before posting, make sure the “Trial” toggle is ON.
Post it—then check insights in 24 hours to see how non-followers responded
What Are Trial Reels?
Trial Reels allow you to test new content ideas in a private setting before publishing them to your audience.
Think of it as a "sandbox" where you can explore creative concepts, play with formats, and refine your messaging without worrying about engagement metrics or public feedback.
Key Features:
Trial Reels are visible only to you until you decide to publish them.
You can analyze basic performance metrics privately (e.g., time watched, completion rates).
Ideal for trying new styles, hooks, or experimental content.
How to Use Trial Reels
Accessing Trial Reels:
Go to the Reels tab and start creating a new Reel as usual.
Before publishing, select the Trial Reel option.
Test Your Content:
Experiment with different formats, hooks, or storytelling styles.
Analyze the performance metrics Instagram provides in the Trial Reel dashboard. (I have a podcast episode on this where I teach you how to analyze your data for growth)
Refine & Publish:
Make adjustments based on the data and feedback from your Trial Reel.
Once you’re confident, publish it directly from the Trial Reel dashboard.
Best Practices for Instagram Trial Reels
1. Give It Time to Percolate
Don’t judge your Trial Reel in the first few hours. Instagram itself recommends waiting 24–72 hours to let it gain meaningful insights socialmediatoday.com+14buffer.com+14youtube.com+14.
2. Test Hooks, Formats & Timings
Use Trial Reels to test variations of the same content:
Different opening hooks (“Here’s the truth…” vs “Want a faster way…?”)
Vary formats (face-cam, text overlay, quick tips)
Test posting at different times/days to see when non-followers engage best cincodias.elpais.com+14buffer.com+14koalava.com+14.
3. Compare Performance Metrics (Beyond Views)
Track not just views and likes, but also watch time, shares (sends), and saves. These deeper signals help you decide which versions earn a full release buffer.com+1socialinsider.io+1.
4. You Can Repost Your Best Content
It’s okay to recycle viral or high-performing Reels as Trial Reels, even monthly. Just be cautious—posting duplicates too often could affect your regular reach.
5. Non-Followers Only = Pure Feedback
Trial Reels reach non-followers only (they don’t impact your grid). This lets you test risky ideas, new niches, or formats without worrying about disappointing your core audience.
6. Post Multiple Trials—Carefully
Some creators post 2–3 Trial Reels in one day to test different angles, but be aware—Instagram can reduce distribution if you post too many too fast.
7. Use Trends & Niches as Sandbox Tests
Trial Reels are ideal for dipping your toes into content outside your usual niche—like trend-led memes, different topics, or new audio types. If it performs well, you can confidently share it with followers .
Why Use Trial Reels?
Lower Risk, Higher Creativity: Test content without the fear of public underperformance.
Data-Driven Decisions: Make informed choices about what works best for your audience.
Stay Ahead of Trends: Experiment with trending audio or formats before committing to them on your main feed.
I shared my honest feedback on trial reels exclusively on Call Her Creator podcast.
Access it here:
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