TL;DR
- Meta launched a free mobile video-editing app called Edits to compete with ByteDance’s CapCut.
- The app includes features like green screen, beat markers, AI restyling, and a built-in teleprompter.
- Users log in with Instagram and gain access to idea boards, trending sounds, and performance insights.
- Unlike CapCut, Edits has no paid tier (yet) and is mobile-only.
- More creator tools and monetization features are expected in future updates.
Meta’s Answer to CapCut Arrives
Meta has officially released Edits, a new short-form video editing app aimed at competing with CapCut, the highly popular tool from ByteDance. Edits positions itself as a native solution for Instagram creators, built directly into Meta’s ecosystem.
Development on Edits began shortly after CapCut was temporarily removed from U.S. app stores due to regulatory pressure tied to the TikTok ban. Though CapCut has returned, Meta is seizing the moment to offer a viable in-house alternative.
Getting Started: Tabs and Workflow
Available on both iOS and Android, Edits requires users to log in using their Instagram credentials. Once inside, users are greeted with five core tabs:
- Ideas: Store concepts or inspirational Reels.
- Inspiration: Discover trending sounds and visual ideas.
- Projects: Manage, edit, and upload content in progress.
- Record: Capture new footage directly in the app.
- Insights: Track performance metrics like reach, engagement, and followers.
Powerful Editing Features in Edits
Meta’s Edits app includes a wide range of intuitive tools that bring creator-level control to mobile devices. Many are powered by Meta’s AI infrastructure.
| Feature | Description | Source |
| Green screen | Instantly change video backgrounds. | TechCrunch |
| Cutouts | Isolate and track specific objects. | TechCrunch |
| Captions | Auto-generate subtitles in multiple languages. | TechCrunch |
| Beat markers | Sync visuals to the rhythm of audio. | TechCrunch |
| Restyle | AI-generated visual themes and effects. | TechCrunch |
| Teleprompter | Read scripts in real time during recording. | TechCrunch |
| Timeline editor | Precise clip control by frame. | TechCrunch |
| Apply all | Batch apply filters, transitions, and effects. | TechCrunch |
Edits vs. CapCut: How They Stack Up
Though CapCut still leads with more advanced features and a larger music library, Edits is designed to integrate seamlessly with Instagram. It’s particularly well suited for creators looking for an all-in-one, mobile-friendly workflow.
| Feature | Edits by Meta | CapCut by ByteDance | Source |
| Platform Availability | iOS, Android | iOS, Android, Web | TechCrunch |
| Subscription Model | Free | Freemium + Paid Tier | CapCut |
| Music Library | Instagram-based | Extensive global tracks | CapCut |
| AI Tools | Moderate (Restyle, Animate) | Advanced (AI Sync, Auto-Cuts) | TechCrunch |
| Web Access | No | Yes | CapCut |
| Teleprompter Feature | Yes | No | TechCrunch |
| Native IG Integration | Full | None | Meta |
A Strategic Move Amid TikTok Uncertainty
With TikTok’s U.S. future still uncertain, Meta is reinforcing its creator ecosystem by embedding essential tools like Edits into its app family. This also reduces dependency on third-party platforms like CapCut, while strengthening Instagram’s position as a destination for video-first creators.
Meta has not ruled out adding paid features to Edits in the future, as Adam Mosseri has mentioned plans for premium functionality. However, the app currently remains free and ad-free, for now.
