Facebook revolutionizes video: vertical display and smart algorithm

Facebook has launched a new feature that will revolutionize the video viewing experience on the platform. The article by Andrew Hutchinson, Content and Social Media Manager at Facebook, explains how the social media company has introduced a new full-screen video player and recommendation algorithm to provide a better experience for users.

A new full-screen video player

According to Hutchinson, Facebook has decided to adopt a new format for videos posted on the platform, similar to that of TikTok. Each video will be displayed full screen and in portrait format. This new uniform layout will provide a better viewing experience and is in line with new trends in video content consumption.

Prior to this change,the viewing of videos on Facebook could vary depending on the length of the video itself or where it was viewed. Now, however, each video will be available in a vertical feed, which closely resembles the TikTok interface.

It is important to note that, in some cases, it will still be possible to rotate the phone to watch videos in landscape mode. This will allow users to enjoy a more immersive viewing experience, especially for videos that require wide viewing.

Improvements to video recommendations

In addition to the new video format, Facebook has also introduced improvements to the video recommendation algorithm. This algorithm will be based on users’ interests to suggest videos that might be most interesting to them.

According to Hutchinson, Facebook will use the new full-screen video player to offer improved recommendations. This means that users will receive video suggestions of various lengths, depending on their interests. For example, if a user is interested in short makeup videos, he or she might receive Reel recommendations that show quick makeup tutorials. Conversely, if a user is interested in video tutorials on home improvements, they might receive recommendations of longer videos.

Interestingly, although Facebook recommends videos of different lengths, Hutchinson points out that high-quality, engaging videos are more likely to get good visibility on the platform. This means that although videos of various lengths will be recommended, Facebook will give higher visibility to high-quality Reels.

Tips for content creators

Facebook also shared some tips for content creators who want to make the most of the new recommendation algorithm. Hutchinson says that to get good visibility, creators should focus on producing high-quality Reels. Also, uploading unedited or longer content from other platforms may not perform well in the future.

This suggestion is particularly interesting for those who wish to repurpose their content on different platforms. Hutchinson seems to indicate that in order to perform well on Facebook, it is necessary to create content specifically for this platform, rather than simply sharing content from other platforms without any editing.

In essence, Facebook wants to promote the use of Reels and aims to bring out the best videos through this new process. This is further recognition of TikTok’s successful approach to short, vertical videos.