The ability to download Instagram Reels was seeded to users in the USA back in July, but now that the feature is available worldwide, many more users will start downloading their favourite reels and maybe even use them for their reels. Now, the possibilities are endless and we love the feature as Instagram has put in some fail-safes to protect the effort of the original creator.
- The Instagram needs to be public to be downloaded. Earlier, users could only save reels to view later, but now, the reel will be downloaded to the device memory.
- When the reel is downloaded, the video will feature a watermark with the Instagram ID of the original content creator. This will prevent misuse of the content. Also, many people reuse content without crediting the original creator, but this way, they have no option but to do so.
- Finally, if the reel you have downloaded as some licensed music, the same will be muted.
These measures ensure that the download feature is used responsibly. If you want to download your favourite public reels, this is how you can do it.
Step 1. Open the Instagram app on your smartphone (Android or iOS)
Step 2. On the bar at the bottom, tap on the Reels tab. This will open up the reel’s carousel. Alternatively, you can search for your favourite reel using the search bar.
Step 3. Open up the reel of your choice and then tap on the ‘Share’ button.
Step 4. You will see the ‘Download’ option if the reel is public. Tap on it and the download will begin.
You will also see a small pop up saying that the downloaded reel cannot be used for commercial purposes. Once the progress bar is completed, you can exit the app and head to your device gallery. The downloaded reel will be there. Now, if the audio being used is not licensed, then it may play when you open up the downloaded reel. Licensed music will be muted automatically.
Now, if you want to use this reel for your project, you can remix it using the app, or ask for the creator’s permission before you use the content in your project.
