Instagram Reels burst onto the scene in 2019, quickly becoming a favorite among users worldwide. Its snappy format, music integration, and discoverability make it an addictive feature. Whether you’re showcasing your dance moves, sharing a cooking tutorial, or simply expressing your creativity, Reels offers a dynamic platform. However, like any technology, it’s not immune to glitches. Today we’ll delve into the common culprits behind Instagram reels not working or Instagram not showing reels issues and provide step-by-step fixes to get you back on track.
So, grab your phone, settle in, and let’s troubleshoot!
Understanding the “Instagram Reels Not Working” Problem
There’s nothing more frustrating than opening Instagram, ready to unleash your creativity with a Reel, only to be met with a blank space or an error message. This can manifest in several ways:
- The “Reels” option is completely missing from the app.
- You can access the Reels section, but features like recording or editing aren’t functional.
- Preloaded Reels fail to display or load endlessly.
These issues can be caused by various factors, from temporary glitches to outdated software. The good news is that most fixes are relatively simple to implement.
Top Solutions to Get Your Instagram Reels Working Again
Now, let’s dive into the solutions that can fix the “Instagram reel option not showing” blues:
Fix 1: Verify The Internet Connection
This might seem obvious, but a weak or unstable internet connection is a common culprit behind “Instagram not showing reels.” Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi signal or sufficient mobile data allowance. Try switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data to see if the issue persists. If you find yourself in a situation where multiple devices are connected to the same network, your internet speed may be impacted, resulting in slow connectivity. In such cases, it could be beneficial to reset your Wi-Fi router to potentially resolve these connectivity issues.
Fix 2: Check for Regional Availability
Instagram Reels might not be available in all regions yet. While unlikely, it’s worth checking if the feature is officially rolled out in your location. You can find official announcements on Instagram’s website or social media channels. This is quite rare, but it’s worth checking with Instagram’s official announcements for updates on regional availability. If you’re uncertain about whether the Reels feature is accessible in your region, you can verify its availability by visiting Instagram’s support page.
Read Also: How to Download Instagram Reels Audio? (Proven Methods)
Fix 3: Update the Instagram App
Outdated apps can develop compatibility problems. Head to your app store and check for any available updates for Instagram. Installing the latest version often resolves bugs and ensures smooth functionality.
- Open Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (Apple).
- Type Instagram and check if there is an update.
- If yes, then tap on the Update
Fix 4: Try Updating Your Device
If you’re experiencing difficulties viewing Instagram Reels, it could be due to an outdated operating system (OS) version on your device. If you’re encountering issues with other apps or features as well, it’s recommended to manually update your phone’s OS.
- On an Android device, navigate to Settings > Software update, and select Download and Install. From there, you can choose to update your device immediately or schedule the update for a later time.
- To update your iPhone, simply navigate to Settings > General and choose Software Update. This will prompt your device to check for any available updates and guide you through the process of installing them.
Read Also: How To Fix Instagram Camera Not Working?
Fix 5: Log Out and Log Back In
A simple yet effective solution! Sometimes, a temporary glitch with your account can cause issues. Logging out and logging back into your Instagram account can refresh the connection and potentially resolve the problem.
- Open the Instagram app and tap on your profile icon located in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- Next, navigate to the Hamburger icon from the top-right corner and click on the option to Log Out.
- After logging out, sign back in using your credentials and check to see if Instagram Reels are now accessible.
Fix 6: Clear the Instagram App Cache (Android Only)
An overloaded cache can hinder app functionality. On Android devices, you can clear the Instagram app cache without losing your login information. Here’s how:
- Tap and hold on to the Instagram app icon for a second, then click on the Info
- Tap on Storage.
- Look for the “Clear cache option.“
- Tap on “Clear cache.“
Unfortunately, iOS doesn’t offer a direct way to clear the cache for individual apps. You’ll need to reinstall the app for a cache refresh (don’t worry, your login information and data will be safe).
Fix 7: Reinstall the Instagram App (If Necessary)
If the above steps don’t solve the problem, consider reinstalling the Instagram app. This will erase any corrupted files or data that might be causing issues. Remember, you’ll need to log back in after reinstalling. Whether you’re using an Android or iOS device, reinstalling the Instagram app can often resolve any issues and restore its functionality to normal.
Read Also: How to Solve Instagram Stories Repeating Problems? Reasons & Fixes
Fix 8: Report the Issue to Instagram Support
If none of the above solutions work, you can report the issue directly to Instagram. They have a dedicated support channel within the app:
- Go to your profile page on Instagram.
- Tap on the hamburger menu (three horizontal lines) in the top right corner.
- Scroll down and then click on Help.
- Tap and choose Report a Problem.
- Briefly describe the Instagram Reels not working issue you’re facing and submit the report.
Fix 9: Instagram Lite (Android Only)
If you’re on an Android device with limited storage or experiencing performance issues, consider using Instagram Lite. This stripped-down version of the app consumes fewer resources and might function better on older phones.
Read Also: 10 Best Free Instagram Followers Apps For Android & iOS
Fixed
Instagram Reels have become an integral part of the platform’s content ecosystem, allowing users to express creativity and engage with their audience through short-form videos. However, encountering issues where Instagram Reels stop working can disrupt this creative process and hinder user experience. By understanding the potential causes behind such issues and implementing the top fixes outlined in this guide, users can overcome obstacles and continue leveraging Instagram Reels to share compelling content seamlessly.
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