Instagram Reels is a feature that allows users to create and share short multi-clip videos with audio, effects and creative tools. It was first launched in Brazil in November 2019 and expanded to more countries in 2020. However, some users may not yet see the Reels option on their Instagram app. Here are some potential reasons why and what you can do about it.
You may not have the latest version of Instagram
Reels is included in the most updated versions of the Instagram app. If you don’t have the latest version, you won’t see Reels as an option. Make sure to update your Instagram app to the newest version available in your device’s app store.
Your region may not have access to Reels yet
While Reels is now available globally, the rollout has been gradual. There are still some regions where Instagram may not have activated the Reels feature yet. You’ll have to wait until Reels is launched in your country to start using it.
Here are the regions where Reels is currently available as of October 2022:
- Worldwide
Instagram is working on launching Reels for all regions soon. Keep checking if you get the Reels option as they continue expanding availability.
Your account may have restrictions enabled
In some cases, country-specific restrictions may block certain features like Reels. For example, Reels was briefly blocked in India earlier in 2020 under Section 69A of the Information Technology Act before being reenabled.
If you’re in a country where Reels is available but it’s not showing up for you, check that your account doesn’t have any restrictions enabled that could be blocking Reels.
Your device specifications may not support Reels
Reels is designed to work best on newer devices with ample processing power and memory. If your smartphone is outdated or low-end, its specifications may not meet the system requirements to properly run Reels.
Here are the minimum device requirements to use Instagram Reels as per the app stores:
| OS | Version |
|---|---|
| iOS | 11.0 |
| Android | 5.0 |
Try updating your device’s operating system or upgrading your hardware if possible. Reels performs best on newer iPhone and Android models.
You may have an account issue
In rare cases, an account-specific issue could prevent Reels from appearing. For example, your account could have a technical glitch, restriction or ban that’s blocking the Reels interface.
Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Log out and log back into your Instagram account
- Clear the Instagram app cache and data
- Uninstall and reinstall the app
- Try accessing Reels from another device and account
- Report the issue using Instagram’s in-app support
If Reels works normally through other accounts, your original account likely has a specific issue blocking the feature. Reporting it to Instagram support can help identify and fix the problem.
You may have the Reels option hidden
The Reels option normally appears in the Instagram camera next to Story and Post. However, it’s possible you may have accidentally hidden the Reels tab which makes it invisible.
To reveal the hidden Reels button:
- Go to your profile
- Tap the three line menu button
- Go to Archive
- Tap on Posts at the top
- Tap on the three dots above Reels
- Select ‘Show Button’
This will unhide the Reels button in your camera so you can access it normally.
You may not have a public account
As Reels is a public sharing feature, it requires your Instagram account to be public. Private accounts don’t have access to create or post Reels.
You can switch your Instagram profile to public by going to your profile, tapping the three line menu, selecting Settings > Privacy > Account Privacy and changing your selection to Public.
However, be aware this will make all your current and future posts visible to anyone on Instagram. Alternatively, you can create a separate public account just for accessing Reels while keeping your main profile private.
Your account may be locked for suspicious activity
In some cases, Instagram may lock accounts that show suspicious patterns of usage. This is done to protect accounts that may be compromised.
A locked account prevents access to certain features, including Reels. You’ll have to verify your identity with Instagram to unlock your account.
To do so:
- Go to Instagram login and enter your username
- If your account is locked, you’ll see instructions to verify identity
- Select the verification method and follow the on-screen process
Once your account is verified, your access to Reels should be restored. Take care not to indulge in any activities that may seem suspicious and trigger locks.
What to do if your account gets locked
- Remain calm, Instagram locks accounts as a precaution
- Do not try to create new accounts, focus on verifying your original account
- Select a strong verification method you have access to
- Follow Instagram’s instructions carefully during verification
- Contact Instagram support if you encounter issues with unlocking
Conclusion
A few main reasons could explain why someone may not have access to Instagram Reels, such as needing app updates, geographical restrictions, account problems or device limitations. Following the troubleshooting tips detailed here can help resolve most issues that are preventing you from using Reels.
Key steps include updating your Instagram app, checking your account settings, switching to a public profile, and verifying your identity if your account is locked. With the global spread of Reels, Instagram is working to enable the feature for all appropriate accounts over time.
If none of these solutions work, you can report your Reels issue to Instagram support for personalized help getting the option enabled. With Instagram expanding the availability and utility of Reels for content creation, most suitable accounts should be able to start using it soon.