In 2020, Meta introduced Reels on Instagram as a direct response to the popularity of the short-video platform TikTok. These 60-second videos, which are prominently featured on the Instagram Explore Page, have quickly become Meta’s fastest-expanding content format, offering creators the opportunity to monetize their work through ad revenue. Recently, the platform has added a new feature, allowing users to download Reels from other accounts via Stories, making it easier to revisit or share content outside of the app. Here’s how you can download Instagram Reels on both Android and iPhone devices.
Steps to Download an Instagram Reel
Downloading Instagram Reels through Stories is a straightforward process that does not require any third-party applications.
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Launch the Instagram app on your Android or iOS smartphone.
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Select the Reel you wish to save, then tap the Share icon.
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Add the Reel to your Story by tapping on the appropriate option.
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Zoom in on the preview, then access the three-dot menu at the top and select Save.
Once downloaded, users can find the Reel in their camera roll. Notably, the downloaded video will not include an Instagram watermark but will display the username of the account that posted it.
Currently, only Reels shared from public accounts can be downloaded. Content from private accounts remains inaccessible for download. Additionally, users with public profiles have the option to disable the download feature in their app settings.
In June, Instagram head Adam Mosseri announced that users in the U.S. would be able to download Reels posted by public accounts directly to their camera rolls. Previously, users were limited to sharing these Reels in their Stories or through direct messaging by tapping the share icon and selecting the Download option. Mosseri shared an image showcasing the new Download option alongside features like Add to Story, Share, and Copy Link.
