How to Fix Instagram Reels Not Working Updated 2023 (Instagram Reels Not Showing)
Instagram Reels is Instagram's answer to TikTok, where you can create short, engaging clips to share with your followers. However, issues with apps and app features are not uncommon. If you discover that the Instagram Reels feature isn't displaying or working as expected, you're undoubtedly looking for a quick fix.
In this article, we'll cover possible solutions to get your Instagram reels working again. We also outline the exact steps to follow for each tip via your Android or iOS device Let's get rolling.
Instagram Reels not working on Android
We will now go through six tips that you can try to get the reels working again on your Android device. After trying each attempt, you can check if the problem persists.
Note: Be aware that performing some of the steps listed below will delete your Instagram drafts Save any drafts you want to complete before logging out of the app, clearing the cache, or deleting the app.
Check Instagram Reels via all access points
To double check that Instagram Reels isn't showing up or isn't working properly at all, first check the various points it can be accessed:
1. Reel tab via navigation bar
At the bottom of the Instagram app, scan the navigation bar for the Reels option in the center.
2. New post screen
At the top left, tap the plus sign icon to create a new post
Now see if the Reels option shows up in the tab below.
3. Instagram Explore screen
Tap the search bar to go to the Explore page
Now see if the search results display the public reel in the area.
4. Instagram Stories screen
Navigate to your Instagram Stories and check the Reels option at the bottom.
5. From a user's profile
Go to an Instagram profile and see if the Reels option appears next to the IGTV option.
6. Instagram Camera
Swipe left to right through the Instagram home page and find the Reels option at the bottom.
A temporary bug or error in your Instagram account may cause Reels not to work. The easiest way to fix that scenario, especially when multiple accounts are signed into your Instagram app, is to log out of your account and back in again:
From the bottom right corner, tap on your profile picture.
When your profile appears, in the top right, tap the hamburger menu.
At the bottom of the sidebar, tap Settings.
Scroll down to Settings and tap Log Out.
Tick your account then select Log out again.
Clear the data cache
To reset the Instagram app to how it was when you initially downloaded it, try clearing the data cache. To do this through your Android device:
Turn on Settings.
Select Apps.
Type "Instagram" in the search bar at the top right.
Under Usage, select Storage.
Select Clear Cache.
Uninstall and then reinstall the Instagram app
If the Instagram app is buggy, buggy, or not up-to-date, your best bet is to try uninstalling the app from your device and then reinstalling the latest version.
To uninstall Instagram on your Android device:
Open settings.
Select Apps.
Locate and select Instagram.
Tap Uninstall and then OK.
To reinstall Instagram:
Go to the Google Play Store to find the Instagram app and tap the Install button.
Tip five: Update your device
The device you are using may be responsible for your problem. Make sure your device has the latest version of OS software installed to support the Instagram Reels feature To do this on your Android device:
Open settings.
Now go to System > System Update.
Tap Check for Updates.
Your device will search for pending updates and then install them if one is available
Tip Six: Report the problem
If you've tried the steps above and Instagram Reel still isn't working, let Instagram know:
Sign in to your Instagram account and tap the hamburger menu icon at the top.
Select Settings > Help.
Tap Report a problem in the Help menu.
Enter the problem, for example, "Unable to view or use the Instagram Reels feature." You can take a screenshot of the problem if you want.
At the top right, tap the Submit button.
Then wait for Instagram's response.
Instagram Reels not working on iPhone
Next, we'll walk you through six tips to try on your iPhone and iOS device to get the reels working again. You can check if the reel is working after trying a tip.
Check Instagram Reels via all access points
To make sure the reels are not displaying or working properly, first check the numerous points it can be accessed:
1. Reel tab via navigation bar
At the bottom of the Instagram app, scan the navigation bar for the Reels option in the center.
2. New post screen
At the top left, tap the plus sign icon to create a new post
Check if the Reels option shows up in the bottom tab.
3. Instagram Explore screen
Click on the search bar to go to the search page.
Check if the public reel is displayed in the search results area.
4. Instagram Stories screen
Go to your Instagram Stories and check if the Reels option is at the bottom.
5. From another user's profile
Go to a user's Instagram profile and check if the Reels option appears next to the IGTV option.
6. Instagram Camera
Swipe left to right on the Instagram home page and find the Reels option at the bottom.
Try logging out then coming back
A bug or error with your Instagram account can cause Instagram Reels problems. The easiest way to fix this, especially when multiple accounts are signed into the Instagram app, is to log out of your account and back in again:
Tap your profile picture in the bottom right corner.
When your profile appears, tap the hamburger menu icon in the top right.
Tap Settings at the bottom of the sidebar.
Scroll down to Settings and tap Log Out.
Select your account then select Log out again.
Clear the data cache
The only way to clear cache data for Instagram on an iPhone is to uninstall and reinstall the app. Please follow the instructions below.
Tip Four: Uninstall and then reinstall the Instagram app
If the Instagram app is buggy, your best bet might be to try uninstalling the app and reinstalling the latest version.
To uninstall Instagram on your iPhone or iOS device:
Locate the Instagram app.
Long-press it and then tap Remove app.
Select Delete app and then delete to confirm.
To reinstall Instagram
Go to the App Store to find the Instagram app.
Tap on the Install button.
Update your device
Instagram may have issues depending on the device you're using. Make sure your device has the latest OS software installed to support the Instagram Reels feature To do this on your iPhone or iOS device:
Open settings.
Select General.
Select Software Update.
Your device will now search for pending updates and install them if one is available
Tip Six: Report the problem
If none of the above tips work for you, try contacting Instagram to let them know:
Sign in to your Instagram account.
Tap the hamburger menu icon at the top left.
Choose Settings and then Help.
Tap Report a problem.
Enter the problem, for example, "Unable to use or view the Instagram Reels feature." You can take a screenshot of the problem if you want.
Tap the Send button at the top right.
Then wait for Instagram's response.
Frequently Asked Questions
Instagram introduced the Reels feature in 2020, so you're probably still learning. We've included answers to some of your most frequently asked questions in this section.
What should I do if I have problems with Instagram?
If Instagram is the culprit, most users will experience the same problem. Perhaps your friends are also facing problems. If you want to check if there is a problem with Instagram, visit the company's official Twitter page or the Downdetector website.
Assuming there are many problem reports, there's not much you can do except wait. Make sure the app is up-to-date and check back frequently. Meta developers are usually quick to fix issues.
Why can't I add a poll to my relay?
Unfortunately, Instagram's interactive stickers (polls, quizzes and challenges) are not available on Instagram Relay. If you want to engage your audience with one of these functions, you can choose to publish a story.
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