Possible Causes
There are a few common reasons why Reels may not be working properly on an iPad:
Outdated App Version
One of the most likely culprits is needing to update the Instagram app. Reels is a relatively new feature that requires the latest version of the app to work properly. Check the App Store for any available updates to Instagram. Install the most recent version and then try using Reels again.
Incompatible Device
Currently, Reels is only supported on iOS devices running iOS 11 and higher. If your iPad is running an older iOS version that predates Reels, you won’t be able to use this feature. You’ll need to update your iPad’s operating system to use Reels.
Restricted Access
In some cases, access to Reels may be restricted based on your location or age restrictions on your Instagram account. Users under the age of 18 may not have access to Reels. You can check your account’s settings to see if any restrictions are enabled that could be blocking Reels.
Glitch or Bug
Like any new feature, Reels can be a bit glitchy at times. Some users have reported various bugs preventing Reels from working properly even when the app and device should support it. Try force quitting the Instagram app and restarting it to see if that helps resolve any temporary glitches.
Troubleshooting Steps
Here are some steps to try troubleshooting and fixing any Reels issues on your iPad:
Update Instagram App
Go to the App Store and check for any available updates to the Instagram app. Install the latest version, even if it’s a minor update. New versions often contain bug fixes and optimizations.
Check iOS Version
Go to Settings > General > Software Update and install the latest iOS version available for your iPad. Reels requires iOS 11 or later.
Disable Restrictions
Go to Settings > General > Restrictions. If enabled, toggle off restrictions that could prevent Reels from working, like age restrictions.
Log Out and Back In
From your profile page, tap the three line menu icon and choose Log Out. Then log back into your Instagram account. This can resolve temporary glitches.
Reinstall Instagram App
As a last resort, you can uninstall then reinstall the Instagram app:
– Tap and hold the Instagram icon until it jiggles
– Tap the X to uninstall
– Open the App Store and reinstall Instagram
Contact Instagram Support
If you still can’t get Reels working after trying the above steps, you may need to contact Instagram support for additional help troubleshooting.
Reasons Reels May Be Limited
In some cases, access to Reels is limited intentionally. Here are some reasons why:
Underage Users
If you are under the age of 18, Instagram may restrict features like Reels as part of their safety precautions for younger users. You’ll need to wait until you meet the minimum age requirement.
Location Restrictions
Reels may be disabled or limited in certain geographic regions and countries where Instagram does not have rights to music content used in Reels. If you are traveling, for example, Reels may not be available.
Copyrighted Music
To avoid copyright issues, Reels blocks certain music in some regions if Instagram doesn’t have the rights to use it. The music library may be more limited based on your location.
Suspicious Activity
In some cases, Instagram may restrict features if they detect suspicious account activity that violates their community guidelines. Usually the limitation is temporary.
Reels Requirements
To use Reels on Instagram, make sure your iPad meets these technical requirements:
– iOS 11 or newer
– Latest version of Instagram app
– Sufficient storage space for videos
– Active internet connection
– Public Instagram account or access to the Explore tab
The Instagram account also needs to be in good standing without restrictions or bans in order to access Reels.
Improving Reels Performance
If Reels is working but stuttering or slow to load, try these tips:
– Close other apps running in the background
– Ensure you have a strong WiFi or cellular connection
– Avoid using Reels when internet connectivity is slow or spotty
– Restart your iPad to clear out memory and processes
– Update to the latest version of iOS for performance improvements
– Check for overheating which could throttle Reels performance
– Avoid recording or editing Reels videos at high resolutions
Reels Editing Features
Reels provides a host of creative editing tools to make your short videos stand out:
AR Effects
Overlay fun augmented reality effects and filters like those in Instagram Stories.
Timer and Countdown
Record hands-free by setting a timer or countdown to start and stop recording automatically.
Align
Align and straighten video clips to create clean transitions between them.
Speed
Speed up or slow down part of the video for dramatic effect.
Effects
Add creative effects like beauty, shades, or dynamic color filters.
Voiceover
Record a voiceover narration for your Reel to personalize it.
Sticker
Decorate your Reel with colorful static or animated stickers.
Text
Insert text captions, titles, or lyrics using a variety fonts and colors.
Music
Add popular or trending songs and audio to your Reel from Instagram’s music library
Trim and Rearrange
Trim clips and rearrange their order to perfect the flow of the video Reel.
Cover
Select a cover frame to represent your Reel in the Instagram feed.
Sharing Reels to Your Story
In addition to the Reels feed, you can also share your Reel video creations to your Instagram Story:
– After creating your Reel, tap Next
– On the sharing screen, choose “Share to Story”
– You can add stickers, locations, hashtags, and more
– Tap “Your Story” to share the Reel video clip
– It will now appear in your Story for 24 hours
The advantage of sharing to your Story is that all your followers will see it right away. The Reels feed relies on the Instagram algorithm to determine visibility.
Stories also allow you to easily resize or reposition the Reel, since Stories use a mobile-friendly 9:16 vertical aspect ratio, whereas Feed Reels use horizontal 16:9.
So if you create an amazing Reel, don’t forget to also share it as an Instagram Story for maximum views!
Conclusion
Troubleshooting Reels starts with updating your app and iOS software, checking account restrictions, and ensuring your iPad meets the minimum requirements. If issues persist, contacting Instagram support can help resolve rarer bugs and glitches. When working properly, Reels provides a fun new way to create engaging short-form video content for Instagram with a variety of creative editing tools.