Facebook Tests Full-Screen Video Feed and Reels-First Layout for Users in India
Meta is testing a Reels-first Facebook experience in India, directing selected users to a full-screen video feed when they open the app. The trial aims to prioritise video consumption, with users able to switch back to the classic feed. Meta may expand the video-first interface to the US and other markets next year based on engagement and feedback.
Meta has initiated a new user experience test on Facebook in India, directing participating users straight into full-screen video feeds upon opening the application. The change places short-form Reels front and centre as part of a broader corporate push to prioritize video consumption across its primary social platforms.
First outlined by Facebook head Tom Alison, the trial aims to evaluate immersive, video-forward layouts in key international markets before wider adoption. As per a report by TechCrunch, users included in the current testing phase retain the option to opt out and revert to the classic feed format. How Much Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei Made Last Year; Know Ahead of Planned IPO.
Shifting Focus Toward Video and Reels Integration
The restructuring follows several strategic updates designed to position video content at the core of the Facebook platform. Meta previously transitioned all newly uploaded video content into the Reels format regardless of initial length, alongside renaming the platform video tab to highlight short-form media. Company metrics indicate that young adult demographics spend a substantial majority of their platform time engaged with video content.
India continues to serve as an initial testing ground for Meta due to high local digital video consumption rates and a massive active user base. Previous trials on sister platform Instagram similarly tested direct video-first layouts within the region following shifts in the local social media landscape.
User Control and Future International Rollout Plans
While the immersive video layout greets participating accounts upon launch, Meta confirmed that the traditional feed remains accessible as a secondary tab positioned one click away. Users who prefer the standard text and photo timeline can easily switch back through app settings. OpenAI to Introduce Invisible Watermarking for ChatGPT Text in EU to Meet Regulations.
Depending on user feedback and engagement metrics gathered during the regional trial, the technology corporation plans to explore introducing the video-first interface to users in the United States and other global markets in the coming year.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 06, 2026 06:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
