Fueled by TikTok, Instagram introduced its short video format called Reels last year. The 60-second long Reels videos are typically engaging and relatable to hook you to Instagram. However, one of the biggest downsides is that Instagram doesn’t allow to download Reels posted by another account.
Don’t worry! I have listed the best ways to download Instagram Reels on iPhone in this article. Read on to know more.
Note: Reels are protected under copyright, and you cannot share them outside Instagram without the creator’s permission.
- Use Screen Recorder
- Save audio Reels via third-party apps
- Use online Reel downloader tools
- Save Reels using Instagram
- Use Instagram Stories
1. Use Screen Recorder: Best way to download Instagram Reels with audio
You can use iPhone’s native screen recorder to capture Instagram Reels with audio. Additionally, ensure you enable Do Not Disturb mode before recording. Else notifications will appear in the recording.
- Open Control Center.
- Swipe down on iPhones with Face ID
- Swipe up on iPhones with Home Button
- Tap the screen record button (the icon with a solid circle within a circle).
The screen recorder starts after a three-second count down. - Open Instagram and play the Reel.
- Once done, tap the red button showing time in the Status bar.
Alternatively, open Control Center and press the same button to stop recording.
- The Reel will be saved and can be accessed from Photos.
If you are unable to record the audio with SCreen Recorder, you might not have granted Microphone access to Screen Recorder. I recommend checking our guide on the same.
Note: If your iOS native screen recording crashes Instagram, you can opt for third-party screen recorder apps.
2. Save audio Reels via third-party apps: Offers more features
I have used the InSaver: Reposter app as it is easy to use, free, and offers many other features. Once you download InSaver: Reposter, follow the steps below.
- Open Instagram and tap the Reel you want to download.
- Tap the three horizontal dots at the bottom right.
- Copy Reel link and close Instagram.
- Now, open InSaver.
The app will automatically fetch Reels video preview without pasting the link. - Select Preview on the pop-up.
You’ll get two options Save and Repost. - Select Save and grant the required permission.
That’s it! Your Instagram Reel video will now be saved in Photos. This is the most effortless way of downloading the Reel with audio on iPhone.
Further, the InSaver: Reposter app also offers other features like squares, frames, round pic and repost Instagram Reels. Furthermore, the app lets you save unlimited Instagram Reels videos. However, be ready for those intrusive ads, the app’s only downside.
3. Use online Reel downloader tools: Simple and easy
Online Instagram downloader tools offer basic functionality without downloading any app. I have used IG Downloader as it is seamless and allows you to download Insta Reels, photos, and more in a jiffy. It will save Reels in the form of a shareable video in the Downloads folder.
Here’s how to use it:
- Go to IG Downloader.
- Paste the Instagram video link and tap enter.
- Now, hit the download button.
The best part is that you can use the tool to download Reels on Mac.
4. Save Reels using Instagram: Best for offline viewing
Instagram doesn’t let you officially download Reels on iPhone. However, you can still save Reels for offline video. The video is very useful if you reside in an area with limited connectivity or want to view Reels offline.
Follow the steps below to save Instagram Reels for offline viewing:
- Open Instagram and go to the Reels tab.
- Tap the three horizontal dots at the bottom right.
- Select Save.
- Open your Profile and tap three horizontal dots.
- The Reel will appear in the Saved section.
5. Use Instagram Stories: Save Reels without posting
Not many people know this, but you can save Reels without posting on Instagram Stories. However, the feature comes with a caveat. Instagram will save only fifteen seconds of the Reel. Want to download Instagram Stories? Check out our detailed guide.
Follow the below steps to save Reels with audio.
- Open the Reel you want to save.
- Tap the Share button.
- Use pinch-zoom to make the Reels fullscreen.
- Select Add Reel to Your Story.
- Tap three horizontal buttons at the top right.
- Select Save.
That’s it!
These were some of the best ways to download Instagram Reels on iPhone. Screen recorder is the most effortless way, but if you want a precise screen frame, it’s best to use an online tool or Instagram repost apps.
How do you download Instagram Reels? Share your answers in the comments below.
Also read:
- How to download Instagram Stories on iPhone
- How to download and view your Instagram data
- 4 Easy ways to fix Instagram not sharing to Facebook
- Why there’s no native Instagram app for iPad?
Mahit is an engineer by Education with a corporate stint to his name. He ditched the corporate boardroom wars in favor of the technology battleground. For the better part of a decade, he has worked for popular publishing outlets, including Dennis Publishing, BGR India, AppStorm, MakeUseOf, and iPhonehacks.