Instagram is experimenting with a new feature called Gifts that would support content creators to make money from Reels. According to reports, the new Instagram feature is an internal prototype. Instagram approached the feature in July, and app researcher Alessandro Paluzzi was the one to notice it. Instagram was working to develop the feature at the time under the name “content appreciation.”
In a screenshot shared by Paluzzi, a toggle option is seen at the bottom of Reels that would allow fans o send a gift to the creator for each Reel, such as stars, charms, or mega-like. Under the Gifts tab in their settings, content creators can also see if they are eligible for Instagram Gifts.
#Instagram continues to work on the Content Appreciation feature 👀
ℹ️ The feature has been renamed to "Gifts" pic.twitter.com/AJmTPZMLsl
— Alessandro Paluzzi (@alex193a) August 25, 2022
Meta’s tipping system will not be limited to gifts. Instagram launched Badges in 2020, a feature that allows users to show their support for creators during a live video. Badges can be purchased for $0.99, $1.99, or $4.99. When you buy a badge during a live video, a heart icon appears in the comments next to your name. Instagram’s potential addition of Gifts would allow creators to earn money through both live streams and Reels.
