Instagram reels are short videos that you can create and share on the popular social media platform. They are a great way to showcase your creativity, express yourself, and reach a wider audience. However, sometimes you may encounter problems when trying to upload your reels to Instagram. In this article, we will explain why Instagram reels may not upload, and how you can fix this issue with some simple troubleshooting steps.
Why Instagram Reels Not Uploading?
There are several possible reasons why your Instagram reels not uploading. Some of the most common ones are:
Your internet connection is weak or unstable
Instagram requires a strong and stable internet connection to upload your reels. If your connection is slow, interrupted, or fluctuating, it may prevent your reels from uploading. You can check your internet connection by opening a web browser and loading a website, or using a speed test tool to measure your upload speed. You can also check the network signal strength on your phone to see how powerful your connection is.
Your Instagram app is outdated
Instagram constantly updates its app to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features. If you are using an old version of the app, you may not be able to access or use the reels feature properly. You can update your app by going to the App Store or Google Play Store, searching for Instagram, and tapping Update.
Your Instagram app has a technical glitch
Sometimes, the Instagram app may have a problem with processing or encoding your reels video. This can cause your reels to get stuck in the uploading process, or fail to upload altogether. You can try to fix this by force-stopping the app, clearing its cached data, or reinstalling it.
Instagram servers are busy or down
Instagram relies on its servers to store and deliver your reels to other users. If the servers are overloaded, experiencing maintenance, or facing an outage, it may affect your ability to upload your reels. To check the status of Instagram servers you can visit to DownDetector or IsItDownRightNow.
How to Fix Instagram Reels Not Uploading
Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to fix Instagram reels not uploading issue and get your Reel online. Here are some possible solutions:
Check Your Internet Connection
The most common reason for Instagram Reels not uploading is an unreliable internet connection. Reels videos often fail to upload if you have a weak WiFi signal or are using cellular data with poor reception. Make sure you are connected to a strong WiFi network or switch to a cellular network with a stronger signal. This alone could fix the issue.
Reset your network signals
Sometimes, you may experience poor or no network signals on your phone or tablet. One possible solution to this problem is to reset your network signals. This can refresh your connection to the network and improve your signal quality.
There are different ways to reset your network signals depending on your device and operating system. Here are some common methods:
For Android devices
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network.
- Tap on Network operators and select Choose automatically. This will make your device search for and connect to the best available network.
- Alternatively, you can also turn on Airplane mode for a few seconds and then turn it off. This will disconnect and reconnect your device to the network.
For iOS devices
- Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options.
- Tap on Carrier and select Automatic. This will make your device search for and connect to the best available network.
- Alternatively, you can also turn on Airplane mode for a few seconds and then turn it off. This will disconnect and reconnect your device to the network.
Update the Instagram App
An outdated version of the Instagram app can also cause problems with Reels uploads. Go to your device’s app store and make sure you have downloaded the latest version of Instagram. The app updates frequently to fix bugs and optimize features like Reels. Updating provides the best chance for smooth uploading.
Restart Your Phone
Basic troubleshooting steps like restarting your phone can help clear out any glitches that may be preventing Reels from uploading correctly. Completely power down your phone and then restart it. Then try uploading your Reel video again. This refreshes the phone’s memory and resets all app operations.
Check Video File Size and Length
Instagram Reels have limitations on video length and file size. Ensure your video clip is between 3-60 seconds long. Also check that the video file size is under 1GB. If your Reel exceeds the time or size limit, it will fail to properly upload. Trim your video or compress it to meet Reels requirements.
Try Lowering Video Resolution
Large, high-resolution video files often fail to upload. If you shot your Reel in 4K, try lowering the video resolution to 1080p or 720p. This significantly reduces the file size and may allow the Reel to upload correctly. Just ensure the video is still high enough resolution for viewing.
Clear Cache and Data for Instagram App
Corrupted app cache and data is a common culprit behind Instagram issues. Open your phone’s app settings, select Instagram, and clear the cache and data. This forces the app to restart with clean cache/data and can fix Reels upload problems. Just be aware it will sign you out.
Contact Instagram Support
If you have tried all other troubleshooting tips and your Reels still fail to upload, it’s time to reach out to the Instagram Support team. They can look into your account specifically and determine if there is an underlying technical issue.
To contact Instagram Support:
- Open the Instagram app and visit the Settings page
- Scroll all the way down and tap “Support”
- Choose the options that best relate to your uploading issue
- Submit a detailed description of the problem and your troubleshooting steps
The Support team may respond with customized troubleshooting advice or will escalate the issue if a technical bug is suspected.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you should be able to successfully fix Instagram Reels Not Uploading issue. With some guided trial and error, you should able to upload reels again.
Frequently asked questions
Why my Reel fails to upload ?
The most common reasons a Reel fails to upload are poor internet connection, outdated app, large file size, and exceeding the length limit. Check your WiFi or cellular signal, update Instagram, compress your video, and keep it under 60 seconds.
How can I compress my Reel video file size?
Use a third party video compressor or editing app to lower the resolution or bitrate of your video. This will reduce the file size so it can properly upload. Be careful not to compress too much or quality will decline.
What are the size and length limits for Instagram Reels?
Reels must be between 3-60 seconds long. The file size should be under 1GB, with lower sizes preferred for stability. Exceeding either limit can prevent your Reel from uploading.
How do I disable high quality uploads on Reels?
To disable high quality uploads on Reels, tap your profile picture, then tap the three-line menu icon, then Settings and privacy, then Data usage and media quality, and toggle off High quality uploads on Reels. This can reduce the size or quality of your reels video, which may help it upload faster or more successfully.
Should I delete and reinstall Instagram to fix Reels not uploading?
Deleting and reinstalling the app often does not resolve upload issues. First try updating Instagram, restarting your phone, and adjusting video settings. Reinstall as a last resort if nothing else works.
How can I get Reels upload error messages from Instagram?
If your Reel fails to upload, Instagram should display an error message explaining the reason, like “Video too long” or “Unsupported file”. This error provides clues to fix the problem. If you see no error, check your internet connection.
Final Words
Instagram reels are a fun and creative way to share your videos with your followers and the world. However, sometimes you may face difficulties when trying to upload your reels to Instagram. This can be frustrating and disappointing, especially if you have spent a lot of time and effort on making your reels. Fortunately, there are some simple troubleshooting steps that you can follow to fix your Instagram reels not uploading issue. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can hopefully upload your reels hassle-free and enjoy the Instagram reels experience.