Instagram has finally started letting users download Reels posted by others so they can share them outside the app. The feature is currently available to U.S.-based users and will be rolled out to other countries in the coming weeks.
To download a Reel, users simply need to tap on the share icon and then select the Download option. Reels from only public accounts are eligible for download, and public accounts can turn off the ability to download their Reels.
The downloaded Reel will show an Instagram logo along with the account name. This is similar to the way that TikTok attaches a watermark to downloaded videos. Notably, Instagram has always allowed users to download their own Reels without a watermark from drafts.
The move to let users download Reels is likely an attempt by Instagram to attract more people to watch content on the platform. By making it easier for users to share Reels, Instagram hopes that people will be more likely to discover new content and spend more time on the app.
Here are some of the key details about the new feature:
- The feature is currently available to U.S.-based users and will be rolled out to other countries in the coming weeks.
- Reels from only public accounts are eligible for download.
- Public accounts can turn off the ability to download their Reels.
- The downloaded Reel will show an Instagram logo along with the account name.
This is a significant development for Instagram, as it allows users to share Reels more easily with others. This could help to attract more people to the platform and increase engagement.