How to Download Instagram Reels? 2023 November Update

How to Download Instagram Reels? 2023 November Update

When you download Instagram Reels, it bears the creator’s Instagram handle watermark; Image Source/Screenshot: (0)

A new feature that allows users to download Instagram reels directly from the app was released in the November 2023 global mega-update. Struggling users can bid farewell to third-party programs and screen recordings. However, downloads are only enabled for public accounts. So, here's a How-to Guide!

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How to Download Instagram Reels? 2023 November Update

When you download Instagram Reels, it bears the creator’s Instagram handle watermark; Image Source/Screenshot: (0)

Table of contents

Instagram has introduced a new feature that allows users to download Reels right from the app. This feature, which was first offered in the United States earlier this year, is now available globally.

It also eliminates the need for third-party apps or screen recording to store Reels, making the experience more fluid and user-friendly. 

How to Download Instagram Reels Video? 2023 November Update
Screenshot: (0); How to Download Instagram Reels? 2023 November Update

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Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri announced the update via the app’s channel, emphasising its user-friendliness. He highlighted that this functionality is useful for individuals who want to preserve and share reel content without depending on harmful third-party applications. 

Users can use the new feature to download Instagram Reels with ease from the share button. But don’t worry we have a detailed step-by-step guide ready for you already explaining how to download Instagram Reels!

How to Download Instagram Reels

  1. While you are on the Instagram app scrolling reels, tap the “Share” icon, currently a paper aeroplane symbol located on the bottom bar. 
  2. Within the Share options, you can see the “Download” option, click on it and done, and that’s how easy it is to download Instagram Reels.

However, if you can’t see the download option, either your application is not updated or your region is yet to receive its access. You can then access the downloaded reel in the camera roll or gallery of your device.

This is one simple way to learn how to download Instagram Reels, a feature focused on improving the ease of sharing and archiving Instagram Reels videos.

How to Download Instagram Reels Video? 2023 November Update
How to Download Instagram Reels? 2023 November Update; Screenshot: (0)

It is also important to understand that reels from all public Instagram profiles will display the download icon by default. But Instagram has given creators the authority to manage downloads for their Reels.

So, if you are a creator or just another Instagram user and don’t want anyone to download Instagram Reels videos, you can disable this function during its upload process. 

How to Turn Off the Ability to Download and Use Instagram Reels

  1. Once you are done recording and editing your reel and press the “Next” button, tap the “More options” button at the bottom.
  2. Now scroll to the bottom and select “Advanced Settings.”
  3. Locate the “Allow People to Download Your Reels” option and toggle it off if you like to turn off downloads. 
  4. Choose whether to apply this setting to all of your videos or just the one that is being uploaded. 

And done!

It is worth noting that Instagram allows users to disable this feature. Moreover, it is more noteworthy to highlight that Instagram has by default disabled this feature for users under the age of 18.

Also, only newly posted reels via a public profile will be available for download. Earlier reels will not be available through the Insgtram app if your profile is not set to public. 

This new update shall broaden the download functionality, which was previously restricted to stories. It uses the “Close Friends” list built for stories to provide Reel downloads with a similar level of control and privacy.

But no matter what, this update adds another degree of ease for content creators and users alike as Instagram continues to expand and deliver user-friendly features. 

Those who wish to get their hands on this feature shall update their Instagram app from the relevant app stores (Play Store or Apple Store). While the rollout is ongoing, updating the app assures that you can use the new download feature as soon as it is accessible in your region. 

End Note!

Allowing users to download Instagram Reels demonstrates the platform’s dedication to improving user experiences and giving users more control over shared content.

This feature simplifies the process of preserving personal stuff or sharing engaging content. It also perfectly meshes with Instagram’s continuous efforts to make the platform more user-centric.

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Siddhesh Surve

With a background in Journalism, Siddhesh aims to educate readers on tech news in India. Covering national and global events, he wants his readers to be the first to know what’s new in tech today!