Instagram, one of the leading social media platforms, has recently introduced a new feature that’s making waves across the globe. In a broadcast on Wednesday, Instagram head Adam Mosseri announced that users worldwide can now download public Reels directly to their devices. This marks a significant shift from the previous limitation, where Reels could only be saved within the Instagram app for later viewing.
Mosseri highlighted that downloaded Reels will carry an Instagram watermark, displaying the account name—reminiscent of the watermark seen on TikTok videos. This move is seen as a strategic enhancement, aligning Instagram’s short-form video content with the popular trends in the social media landscape.
So, how does it work? Users can simply tap on the share button and choose the download option to save a Reel directly to their device. However, to maintain control and privacy, Instagram has given account owners the ability to disable downloading for their Reels. This setting can be adjusted through the app’s settings under Privacy > Reels and Remix, where users can toggle the “Allow people to download your Reels” option.
It’s important to note a nuanced aspect of this feature: if you download a Reel that includes a licensed audio clip, the downloaded video will be without any audio. Only Reels with original audio tracks will retain sound in the downloaded clip. This distinction adds a layer of complexity, emphasizing the platform’s commitment to copyright and licensing considerations.
This isn’t the first time Instagram has ventured into Reels downloads. The feature was initially introduced for U.S.-based users in June and has now been expanded globally. This move suggests Instagram’s dedication to offering a seamless and globally consistent user experience.
It’s worth remembering Instagram’s previous steps to distinguish itself in the ever-evolving landscape. In 2021, the platform stopped recommending clips with a TikTok watermark, and in August 2022, YouTube introduced a logo-based watermark on downloaded Shorts to discourage cross-platform sharing.
As Instagram continues to evolve and respond to user needs, the ability to download Reels globally signifies a step toward greater user convenience and flexibility. Whether you’re a content creator or a casual viewer, this update provides a new dimension to how we engage with and share short-form video content on the platform. Keep an eye out for this feature in your app settings and explore the possibilities it brings to your Instagram experience.
