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Could Instagram’s Auto-Scroll Feature Lead to Endless Scrolling?
Instagram is trying a new tool called auto-scroll for Reels. This feature lets videos play one after another with no need to swipe or tap. It exists now for a small group of people, mostly creators and testers, but it may appear in more accounts soon.
How to Turn It On
- Open Instagram and play any Reel.
- Tap the three dots below the share icon.
- Look for “Auto-scroll.”
- Switch it on with the toggle.
Note: Not everyone has this option yet. It’s still in testing, mainly seen in India and a few other places.
What Changes with Auto-Scroll?
Short videos just continue to play. When a Reel ends, the next one slides in without your help. To watch a Reel again, try scrolling up, but it returns to moving forward once the replay is done. By default, auto-scroll is off, to avoid any surprise shifts in browsing.
Good Points of Auto-Scroll
Hands-Free Viewing: No need to keep swiping; your hands stay free.
Great for Multitasking: Useful when eating, relaxing, or busy with something else.
Smooth Experience: Simple for those who want background videos.
Drawbacks and Worries
Easier to Lose Time: With no pause between Reels, it’s harder to notice how long you’ve been watching.
Less Control: Taking away manual swipes means more passive viewing.
More Screen Time: The app may nudge people to watch much longer than planned.
Potential for Burnout: Endless, fast content can tire your mind, making breaks important.
Tips for Managing Auto-Scroll
Take regular breaks or set a timer for your sessions.
Pause to reflect when a video really interests you.
Switch off auto-scroll if you prefer to stay in control.
Remember, you get to choose how you enjoy Reels.
What’s Next for Instagram Users?
There’s no announced date when this feature will appear worldwide. Testing is limited, feedback is ongoing, and changes might happen before it launches fully.
In Summary
Auto-scroll lets you watch Instagram Reels without effort, making it easy to relax but also creating a risk of longer viewing sessions than intended. Early testers note it as both fun and a bit too effective at keeping viewers hooked. Stay aware of your screen time and keep a healthy balance, enjoying Reels in a way that feels right for you.