A Guide to Saving Instagram Reels on Your Phone Through Stories

Instagram, owned by Meta, introduced Reels back in 2020 to compete with TikTok's rising popularity. Users can create up to 60-second videos, making it the fastest-growing content format on the platform. It's even possible for creators to earn ad revenue from it. Now, Instagram users can download Reels posted by others through Stories to view later or share with friends outside the app. This article will guide you on how to download Instagram Reels on your Android or iPhone.

Saving Instagram Reels in a Few Simple Steps

Downloading Instagram Reels via Stories is quite straightforward. You won't need to rely on external third-party apps or software. Here's how:

• Launch the Instagram app on your Android or iPhone device.
• Select the Reel you wish to download and tap on the Share icon.
• Add the Reel to your story.
• Zoom in on the preview, then click on the three-dot menu at the top and select Save.
• Finally, discard the story.

After following these steps, you can access the saved Reel from your device's camera roll. However, the downloaded video will not have an Instagram watermark, though it will display the account username.

Limitations and Settings

There are a few limitations to keep in mind. You can only download Reels from public accounts. Those shared from private Instagram accounts are off-limits. Also, if you have a public account, you can disable the ability to download your Reels in your app settings.

Future Developments in Instagram Reels

In June, Instagram chief Adam Mosseri announced that US users would soon be able to download Reels from public accounts directly to their camera roll. Previously, users could only share Reels from public accounts in their Stories or chats. This can be done by tapping on the Share icon and then choosing the Download option. In the image shared by Mosseri, the Download option is visible in the bottom menu, alongside Add to Story, Share, and Copy Link.

With Instagram Reels becoming an increasingly popular feature, it's great to have the option to save and share Reels at your convenience. This enhancement fosters a more interactive user experience while providing a platform for content creators to reach a wider audience. Happy Instagramming!