Meta's Edits App: A Comprehensive Guide to Short-Form Video Editing

Meta has released Edits, a new video editing app to rival ByteDance's CapCut. Edits allows creators to log in with their Instagram account, access five main tabs, and use features such as a green screen, chroma key, and audio editing tools. The app aims to capitalize on CapCut's possible absence in the US, where TikTok's future remains uncertain.

Meta has recently launched Edits, a new video editing app designed to compete with ByteDance's popular CapCut. Edits allows creators to log in with their Instagram account, access five main tabs, and utilize features such as a green screen, chroma key, and audio editing tools. The app aims to capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future in the U.S., where CapCut may face potential restrictions.

Key Features of Edits

Edits offers a range of features that cater to both beginner and experienced creators. The app includes:

- Green Screen: One-tap background replacement for videos.
- Timeline: Precise arrangement and adjustment of video clips.
- Captions: Automatic captions in multiple languages.
- Audio Library: Access to Instagram's music library.
- Cutouts: Precision tracking of objects.
- Animate: Conversion of static images into videos using AI.
- Apply All: Application of filters, effects, transitions, and adjustments to all clips at once.
- Alignment Guides: Accurate positioning of text, emoji, or other elements.
- Beat Markers: Automatic detection of beat markers for synchronized editing.
- Filters and Transitions: A variety of filter and transition options.
- Teleprompter: Script following while recording.
- Restyle: AI-driven changes to video look and style.
- Keyframes: Animation of clip position, rotation, and scale.
- Cut Silences: Automatic removal of unwanted silence.
- Clip Preview: Preview clips during recording.
- Share Drafts: Collaboration via Instagram DMs.

Comparison with CapCut

While Edits and CapCut both serve the purpose of editing short-form videos, there are notable differences. CapCut offers more advanced editing options and a larger music library. However, Edits is free to use, unlike CapCut, which offers a subscription model for advanced features. Edits is currently mobile-only, whereas CapCut is available on the web. Meta has indicated that future versions of Edits may include paid features.

Market Opportunity

The uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future in the U.S. presents an opportunity for Meta to capture a significant portion of the market. Edits offers a seamless integration with Instagram, which is particularly appealing to creators who primarily use the platform. However, for creators who post across multiple platforms or require more advanced audio tools, CapCut may still hold value.

Conclusion

Edits is a well-rounded, beginner-friendly app that offers a strong suite of free video editing tools. With Meta's commitment to ongoing updates, the app has the potential to grow and compete with established platforms like CapCut. As the landscape of short-form video editing continues to evolve, Edits stands out as a viable option for creators looking for a robust, integrated solution.

References

[1] https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/12/a-guide-to-using-edits-metas-new-capcut-rival-for-short-form-video-editing/
[2] https://www.tbsnews.net/tech/edits-app-instagram-can-it-replace-capcut-1207581