If you’ve recently noticed issues with creating or posting Reels on Instagram, you’re not alone. Reels not working properly is a common problem many users face. The good news is that there are usually some simple troubleshooting steps you can take to get Reels working again.
Quick Answers to Common Reels Issues
Here are some quick answers to the most common Reels problems:
- Reels not posting – Log out and back in, force quit and reopen the app, check your internet connection
- Can’t find music – Music library is limited, try using original audio
- Glitchy footage – Use higher resolution video, check for app updates
- Editing problems – Make shorter videos, close and reopen the editor
- Small timeline – Pinch to zoom in the editor, tap ‘Edit’ for more space
Why Might Reels Be Broken?
There are a few key reasons why you may be having issues with posting or viewing Reels:
App Issues
Problems with the Instagram app itself account for many Reels errors. App glitches, bugs, and crashes can prevent Reels from working properly. An outdated version of the app can also cause problems.
Account Problems
Issues with your specific Instagram account can also lead to problems with Reels. This includes account bans, restrictions, bugs, and other account-specific issues.
Server or Network Problems
Instagram servers going down or network connectivity issues either on your end or Instagram’s end can result in Reels failures. Server outages and downtime are not uncommon.
Unsupported Device or OS
Using an older device or unsupported operating system version can cause compatibility issues with Reels. Reels requires iOS 11+ or Android 8.0+.
Troubleshooting Steps
If your Reels aren’t working properly, here are some troubleshooting steps to try:
Force Quit and Reopen the App
Often a simple force quit and relaunch of the Instagram app will resolve any Reels issues. This clears out glitches and memory issues.
- Double tap the Home button (iPhone X or later swipe up)
- Swipe up on the Instagram preview to force quit
- Reopen Instagram and try Reels again
Update the App
Make sure you’re running the latest version of the Instagram app. Bug fixes and updates often resolve Reels problems.
- Go to the App Store (iOS) or Play Store (Android)
- Search for Instagram
- If an Update button is shown, tap to update
- Open Instagram again once updated
Check Account Restrictions
It’s possible your account was restricted from using certain features like Reels. Check account settings for any notifications about restrictions.
Log Out and Back In
Logging out and back into your Instagram account can help clear up account-specific bugs.
- Go to your Instagram profile
- Tap the three line Menu button
- Tap Log Out
- Log back into your account
Delete and Reinstall the App
For persistent issues, deleting and reinstalling the app may be necessary to fully clear out bugs.
- Delete Instagram from your device
- Go to the App Store/Play Store and redownload Instagram
- Log into your account again
Check Network Connection
Spotty internet connections can interfere with Reels functioning. Make sure you have a strong WiFi or mobile data connection.
Try on Different Device
See if Reels works properly when trying from a different mobile device. This can help determine if it’s an account or device-specific issue.
Contact Instagram Support
For ongoing Reels difficulties, you may need to reach out to the Instagram support team via the in-app support options. They may be able to provide specialized troubleshooting tips.
Why Reels Get Blocked
In some cases, Reels may fail to post due to getting blocked by Instagram’s automatic content moderation filters. Here are some of the main reasons Reels can get blocked:
- Copyrighted music usage
- Harmful or dangerous content
- Nudity or sexual content
- Hate speech, bullying, or harassment
- Spammy or misleading content
- Violent, graphic, or disturbing content
If your Reel was blocked, you’ll receive a notification explaining the content violation. You can edit your Reel to comply with the rules and try posting again.
Best Practices for Avoiding Reels Issues
Follow these tips to help prevent problems with posting and viewing Reels:
- Use the latest version of Instagram
- Have a strong internet connection
- Don’t use copyrighted music without permission
- Follow all community guidelines
- Keep Reels under 30 seconds
- Use high resolution, clean footage
- Check for notifications about account restrictions
- Contact Instagram support if issues persist
FAQs
Why are my Reels not posting?
Common reasons Reels fail to post include connection issues, app bugs, account restrictions, blocked content, unsupported device, and outages. Try the troubleshooting steps outlined above.
Why can’t I find certain songs in Reels?
The music library for Reels is limited due to licensing. Trending and popular songs are prioritized. Try using original audio or public domain music.
Why are my Reels glitchy?
Glitchy footage in Reels is usually caused by using low resolution video or having a poor internet connection. Use high-quality video and ensure you have a strong WiFi or mobile data connection.
Why is the Reels editor timeline so small?
The Reels editor timeline may appear smaller on some devices. Try pinching to zoom in or tapping ‘Edit’ at the bottom for more space. Update the app as well.
How do I zoom in the Reels editor?
To zoom in while editing your Reel, use a two finger pinching motion on your touchscreen. Pinch in to zoom in, and pinch out to zoom back out.
Conclusion
Troubleshooting Reels issues can be frustrating, but is usually resolvable. App glitches, account restrictions, network problems, and unsupported devices are common culprits. Updating Instagram, checking for notifications, restarting your device, and contacting Instagram support can all help get Reels working again.
Following best practices like using high quality footage, avoiding copyrighted music, and keeping Reels under 30 seconds can help avoid issues in the first place. With some diligent troubleshooting, you should be able to get Reels functioning properly again soon.