Instagram will finally let users download Reels posted by public accounts so they can share them outside the app.
It took a while, but Instagram finally understood what has helped made TikTok so popular.
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The news was shared on Adam Mosseri’s broadcast channel. He explained that starting immediately, US-based Instagram users will be able to download public Reels to their phone camera. Mosseri noted that Reels from only public accounts are eligible for download. To download a Reels, you will simply tap on the share icon and then select the new Download option.
Mosseri added that public accounts will have to option to turn off the ability for users to download their Reels.
Being able to download and share videos to other platforms greatly contributed to the growth of rival short video app TikTok. TikTok has had this feature for years, allowing for content created on its platform to be shared across the web, with the app’s watermark and credit to the creator.
Mosseri did not specify if Instagram Reels will come with a watermark once downloaded, the picture he shared on broadcast showed an Instagram logo along with the account name.
