How to Fix Instagram Reels Not Working | 2025 Guide

It must be terrible when your Instagram reels don't work correctly. Don't worry. You're in the right place. This guide will tell you how to solve these issues with Instagram reels not working on Android, iOS, and PC devices.

Key Takeaways

Fix 1. Check Internet Connection

You can quickly troubleshoot network problems by checking your Wi-Fi or cellular connection. It's essential to fix the reels not loading issues.

Fix 2. Check Network Speed

Cannot load reel videos, or are Instagram Reels not refreshing? It may be that your internet speed is too slow. Use a free tool like Speedtest to check your internet speed and network stability.

Fix 3. Clear Instagram App Cache

Clearing the Instagram app cache removes temporary files that may be corrupted or expired, affecting the app's performance. This helps your app run more efficiently and resolves issues with Reels not loading correctly.

Fix 4. Update or Reinstall the Instagram App

Sometimes, If you don't update Instagram to the latest version, bugs in the older version won't be fixed, which can cause issues with Reels. So, to fix it, go to the app center and update to the latest version.

At the same time, you can also uninstall and reinstall the latest version of Instagram directly.

Fix 5. Update Your Device or Browser

Besides upgrading your app, updating your devices or browser is also essential because it can improve performance and compatibility, fixing issues like Instagram Reels not working.

Fix 6. Log in to Your Account on PC

Some users also said that logging into their Instagram accounts on a computer is a great way to watch reels effortlessly.

Fix 7. Use VPN service

Some countries or regions do not yet support Instagram services. You can check here. Therefore, if you want to use Instagram normally and watch reel videos smoothly, you can use a suitable VPN service.

Fix 8. Check Instagram Server Status

If the above methods do not solve the problem of Instagram reels not loading or playing, please check whether it is a server failure. You can visit the Downdetector website to check if the Instagram Service Status is working properly. If yes, please wait for Instagram to fix it patiently.

Fix 9. Log in Again or Switch to Another Account

Some temporary problems may be solved by logging out of the account and logging in again. It's worth a try! Alternatively, switch to a different account to check if Reels load properly. If they do, the issue might be with your original account. In that case, consider contacting the support team to inquire about potential account-related problems.

Fix 10. Contact Instagram Support

Most Instagram reels not working problems can be solved through the above methods. If the problem still exists, please contact its support team for professional help.

Bonus tip: Screen Record Instagram DM

In Direct Messages, Instagram has enabled anti-screenshot and screen recording protection mechanisms for pictures and videos. Thus, users can't screenshot Instagram DM anymore. But here are possible solutions:

You can use a professional screen recorder like EaseUS RecExperts to capture Instagram disappearing photos without others knowing. Meanwhile, you can also screen record protected videos without a black screen, including recording Amazon Prime, Netflix, Disney Plus, or Hulu.

For mobile users, another best way is to use an older version of Instagram and screenshot or screen record with built-in features. For example, Android users can download the old version of Instagram through the APKMirror website. But please note that it will notify the others that you have taken a screenshot in this way.

Conclusion

From this post, we have introduced practical methods to help you fix Instagram reels not working problems. You can solve the issues easily by checking the data connection and clearing the cache to update the app or device.

Moreover, Given that Instagram has taken measures to prevent screenshots and screen recordings, we recommend using professional software like EaseUS RecExperts to capture the screen without others knowing.

Instagram Reel Not Available FAQs

1. How to fix Instagram Reel glitch?

You can troubleshoot the data connection or check the Instagram server status first. Also, you can clear the app cache and update your app. From these ways, you can solve the Instagram reel problem.

2. Why do Instagram Reels freeze?

Instagram Reels freeze may be caused by an unstable or slow network, insufficient mobile memory, or processor overload.

3. How to screen record Instagram DM without them knowing?

For Windows and Mac users, you can use EaseUS RecExperts to screen record Instagram DM without them knowing. It's a powerful screen recorder that can bypass the screenshot or screen recording restrictions.

For Android and iPhone users, Using an older version of the Instagram app and the phone's built-in tools to take screenshots and record screens is not restricted.