Edits: Import Audio – Instagram feature for Artists

Edits – Import audio and share unreleased music

Short clips dominate social networks today, and Edits – Instagram’s standalone video app – makes it easy for artists and creators to craft professional Reels. Recently, users can not only edit video but also upload their own audio files directly from their smartphone. This new capability is especially exciting for DJs and artists who want to share unreleased music, present demos or sync Reels with a custom soundtrack. In this post, you’ll learn how to use the audio import function, what benefits it offers and how to leverage it for your music promotion.

What’s new in Edits?

In summer 2025, Instagram introduced the ability to import audio files directly from your smartphone into Edits. Meta is responding to the growing need for flexible music usage in short‑form videos. Instead of relying solely on in‑app sounds or painstakingly syncing your own audio afterwards, you can now simply upload MP3s or other formats from your file manager or extract a soundtrack from a video. For artists and DJs this means exclusive track previews, remix snippets or voiceovers can be seamlessly integrated into Reels without needing a watermark app or third‑party tool.

How to import audio into Edits

Using the audio import feature is straightforward. Follow these steps to load your music into Edits:

1. Create a new project: Open the Edits app and start a new project.
2. Open Audio: Tap “Add audio” or “Audio” to open the music library.
3. Select Import: Tap “Import” in the upper right corner.
4. Choose a source:
   • Extract from video: Pull the audio track from a video in your camera roll.
   • Import from files: Upload an audio file (e.g. MP3) from your smartphone’s file manager.

Once the file is imported, you can place it on your timeline, cut it and combine it with Edits’ existing filters and effects.

Good to know: Rights and availability

Meta points out that copyrighted content is automatically detected. So make sure you only use your own songs or licensed material. Because this feature is still rolling out, make sure you have the latest version of the app installed. Edits is currently free, but Instagram has announced plans to make certain advanced, AI‑powered features paid in the future. Keep up to date so you don’t miss any new tools.

Why is this feature important for artists?

For artists and DJs, audio import opens up new creative possibilities. You can use exclusive clips of upcoming tracks as teasers, present alternative versions or demos of your songs, and even record voiceover segments to address your community directly. This function is particularly useful for pre‑save campaigns and release announcements to build anticipation among fans. By using your own music you also strengthen your personal brand and differentiate yourself from generic trending sounds. Combine the imported audio track with the dynamic text animations, filters and safe‑zone guides from the recent update to polish your clips both visually and sonically.

Tips for creative use

• Tease demo releases: Show short snippets of upcoming songs and build excitement before the official release.
• Enhance behind‑the‑scenes content: Use your own recorded commentary or sound collages to give insights into the studio or tour life.
• Create custom sounds: Develop your own sound logos or loops that are recognisable and strengthen your brand.
• Cross‑platform strategy: Export videos without watermarks and reuse them for Reels, TikTok or YouTube Shorts. This way you reach multiple platforms with a single production.
• Mind the rights: Upload only audio you have rights to and pay attention to any notifications in Edits regarding copyrighted material.
  
   

More creative freedom for artists

With the new audio import function, Edits shows once again that Instagram is continuously enhancing its tools. Artists, DJs and content creators benefit from being able to incorporate unreleased music and individual sound ideas directly into their short videos. Use this opportunity to give your fans exclusive insights, sharpen your brand and expand your reach.
Want to do more than just share your music? Sign up now as an artist on our platform and benefit from our experienced digital distribution, customised promotion tools and personal support. Together we’ll make sure your music is not only heard but also seen!