Downloading photos and videos from Instagram has been notoriously difficult. We’re not sure why. Maybe it’s a way to fight copyright infringement. Or maybe Instagram just wants users to share Instagram links instead of leaving the app. However, as far as Reels are concerned, Instagram has had a change of heart and will now let users download them.
Downloading Instagram Reels
This is according to Instagram head Adam Mosseri. His post says that the update is rolling out to users in the US right now. With this new feature, Instagram users can download Reels by tapping on the Share icon and then hitting the Download button. The downloaded video will be saved to their phone’s camera roll.
However, there is a catch. For starters, you cannot download Reels from private accounts. You can only download Reels from public profiles. Secondly, not all Reels are available for download. Instagram allows content creators to choose whether or not others can download their Reels. Lastly, a watermark displaying the logo and account name will appear on all downloaded Reels.
This feature isn’t new per se. Instagram’s chief rival, TikTok, has long offered the option to download videos.
Other Instagram updates
This update comes on the heels of another Instagram update. The company recently rolled out its Edits video editing app. The tool gives users a dedicated and more powerful way to edit their Reels. It comes with more options than what’s available in the Instagram app, and yes, there is AI integration too.
Some have speculated that videos not edited using the Edits app could decrease the reach of their videos. This is because Instagram is probably hoping more users will ditch CapCut in favor of its new Edits app.
We’re not sure when Instagram will roll out this new download tool for users in other parts of the world. However, if it’s started to roll out in the US, it’s presumably only a matter of time before other users around the world get the feature as well.
2025-04-24 15:04:20