Facebook launches full-screen video player

Facebook is set to launch a new, full-screen video player offering a consistent design and experience for various video lengths, including Reels, long-form videos, and Live content. This upgraded player, initially rolling out in the U.S. and Canada aims to enhance the watching and sharing experience for users.

One significant update is the default vertical mode for videos, along with improved recommendations for the next video to watch, regardless of its format. These changes may impact crucial metrics for creators and advertisers, such as watch time, views, and reach. Additionally, more video consumption on Facebook could boost onsite engagement, and advertising metrics like views and clicks, and enhance competition against platforms like YouTube and TikTok by leveraging algorithmic recommendations across a wider range of video types.

The enhanced video recommendations will extend beyond the player, appearing in the Facebook Feed and Video tab as well. Responding to the popularity of short-form video content, Facebook plans to increase the visibility of Reels in users' feeds.

The upgraded player will introduce additional features such as a full-screen mode for horizontal videos and a slider for navigating longer videos. Users will also have more control options, including tapping on the video to access functions like pausing, skipping backwards or forward by 10 seconds, and more.

The timing of Facebook's video player update coincides with discussions among U.S. lawmakers about a potential TikTok ban. If such a ban were to occur, it could lead to increased video consumption on alternative social platforms like Facebook.