Facebook started monetizing its reels platform with overlay ads, giving users another way to monetize content.
Reel monetization will be rolled out gradually. By mid-March, overlay ads will be available in nearly every country that currently has an in-stream ad program.
Let’s dive into the details.
Overlay ads in reels, explained
This is a brand new ad format for Facebook that they are testing. Overlay ads will be available in two formats:
Both ad formats will be superimposed on the Facebook scroll in a transparent format. This means viewers will be able to watch their favorite content creators uninterrupted, while subtly introducing them to relevant ads.
Depending on the format selected, the location of the overlay will vary.
For banner ad placements, these will appear at the bottom of the Facebook scroll.
In the sticker ad format, content creators can choose where in the reels the overlay appears.
Eligibility to Monetize Facebook Reels with Overlay Ads
This new ad format test is not yet available to everyone.
If you’re currently part of Facebook’s in-stream video monetization program, you’ll automatically be eligible to start using overlay ads. There is no need to opt-in to this feature.
If you’re not sure if you’re eligible for in-stream monetization, Facebook has a page for you to check qualified and register.
Facebook is looking to expand its eligibility for in-stream video ads in the coming months, giving content creators more opportunities.
If your reels contain overlay ads, you will receive a portion of the ad revenue. Facebook did not specify the exact amount.
How to get started with overlay ads
Depending on your eligibility for the in-stream video monetization program, you will be automatically opted in to the banner ad format. However, this does not mean that every reel will contain an ad.
The ability to display banner ads in your reels depends on many factors, such as:
- Advertiser targeting settings
- The value of advertising to viewers
You do have the option to opt out of banner ads in the reels by visiting Meta Creator Studio.
There are certain steps to follow to add sticker ads to your reels.
- Click on “Stickers” on the right side of the menu panel (after adding your creativity to the reels)
- Click on “Advertisement” below the sticker tab
- Click “Add Sticker Ad”
- Move the position of the sticker ad frame to the position that best fits your reel
While you can choose where the ad will appear, you don’t have to choose the actual ad that will be displayed. Facebook will select ads that are relevant to individual users viewing your content.
As with banner ads, keep in mind that sticker ads won’t always be displayed for each reel, even if you include the option to display labels.
Why overlay ads?
Facebook is committed to investing $1 billion in content creators. By adding tools like overlay ads on your reels, you can create a sustainable business on Facebook.
Creating content takes time and money. As part of the Ad Monetization Program, you can get a portion of your ad revenue back to you, giving you more time to create premium content for the Meta platform.
resource: Creator’s Meta
Featured Image: rvlsoft/Shutterstock
