Instagram now allows anyone to download Reels
Instagram has expanded its features to allow global users to download public Reels directly to their devices, according to Instagram head Adam Mosseri. Previously, users could only save Reels within the Instagram app for later viewing. Downloaded Reels will now feature an Instagram watermark, displaying the account name, similar to TikTok’s watermark.
To download an Instagram reel, users can tap the share button and choose the download option. Accounts also have the option to disable downloading for their Reels. This can be adjusted in Settings > Privacy > Reels and Remix, where users can toggle the “Allow people to download your Reels” option.
It’s important to note that if a Reel utilizes a licensed audio clip, the downloaded video will not include any audio. Only Reels with original audio tracks will retain sound in the downloaded clip.
This update follows Instagram’s introduction of Reels download functionality for U.S.-based users in June. The platform has now extended this capability to users worldwide. In a related move, Instagram ceased recommending clips with a TikTok watermark in 2021, aligning with the app’s push for original content. Additionally, YouTube implemented a logo-based watermark on downloaded Shorts in August 2022 to discourage cross-platform sharing of its short video product.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) related to downloading Instagram Public Reels:
Q1: How do I download Reels on Instagram?
A1: To download a Reel on Instagram, tap on the share button below the video and select the download option. The downloaded Reel will be saved to your device.
Q2: Can I download any public Reel on Instagram?
A2: Yes, Instagram now allows users worldwide to download any public Reel to their devices. This feature is not restricted to specific regions.
Q3: Is there a watermark on downloaded Reels?
A3: Yes, downloaded Reels will feature an Instagram watermark with the account name, similar to the watermark seen on TikTok videos.
Q4: Can I turn off the ability for others to download my Reels?
A4: Yes, accounts have the option to turn off downloading for their Reels. This can be done in Settings > Privacy > Reels and Remix by toggling off the “Allow people to download your Reels” option.
Q5: What happens if I download a Reel with licensed audio?
A5: If a Reel contains a licensed audio clip, the downloaded video will not include any audio. Only Reels with original audio tracks will retain sound in the downloaded clip.
Q6: When did Instagram start allowing Reels download?
A6: Instagram initially introduced the ability to download Reels for U.S.-based users in June. The feature has since been expanded globally.
Q7: Why did Instagram stop recommending clips with TikTok watermarks?
A7: Instagram stopped recommending clips with TikTok watermarks in 2021 to encourage the creation and promotion of original content on the platform.
Q8: What is the purpose of the watermark on downloaded Reels?
A8: The Instagram watermark on downloaded Reels serves as a form of identification, displaying the account name associated with the Reel.
Q9: Does YouTube also use watermarks on its short video product?
A9: Yes, YouTube implemented a logo-based watermark on downloaded Shorts in August 2022 to discourage cross-platform sharing of its short video product.
Q10: Can I download Reels from private accounts?
A10: As of the information available, the ability to download Reels is generally for public content. Private accounts may have additional restrictions on downloading content due to privacy settings.
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