How to disable Reels on Instagram?

Reels recently received several upgrades from Instagram that have increased the popularity of the format. Almost all videos will now be uploaded in the Reels style, whether people want them to be or not. In addition, anyone can use your publicly visible posts (including still photos) in their own reels unless you block them beforehand.

Instagram Reels are short videos up to 60 seconds in length. Reels give companies the opportunity to reach a wider audience and even go viral, while diversifying your Instagram feed. This is possible because reels are promoted by the Instagram algorithm and are forced to appear on explore and reels pages, in addition to appearing in users' personal feeds.

Possible reasons for the popularity of reels and their appearance in everyone's feed:

1. Designed for quick content

Reels are quick videos. People spend little time watching TV and movies these days because the modern environment requires less time wasted on queues and ads. However, people still seek entertainment. That's why the reel is the ideal entertainment for the next generation of Instagram users.

2. Easy scrolling and instant play

If you've ever spent hours scrolling through the app without selecting a specific video to watch, then you should know how difficult it can be to make a choice. We'd rather let someone else make the decision for us. The reels fit you, start automatically, and if you don't want to watch for any reason, just keep scrolling and a new reel will be waiting for you.

3. Creative content

In today's world, the availability of cameras and other tools used to create videos has increased. Today, anyone with a cell phone can record high-quality clips quickly and easily. You should definitely take advantage of this opportunity to unleash all your creativity. The possibilities for creating reels are endless!

How to disable reels on Instagram?

Right now, it's not possible to easily disable Instagram reels. If you want to get rid of reels, you need to change the way you use Instagram. You can use some of the following methods to avoid Instagram reels.

1. Use a browser to access Instagram

Using Instagram in a browser is the easiest way to get away from the Instagram reel loop. Instagram reels are not available on the Instagram browser extension and are only available on the Instagram app. You can sign in with any browser, such as Mozilla, Google Chrome or Safari. Once you are properly signed in, you can use Instagram without a scroll.

2. Using an older version of Instagram (for Android)

Installing an earlier version of Instagram on your smartphone is the only way to prevent Instagram reels from appearing in your news feed. To obtain an earlier version of the app, follow these instructions:

Download the desired version of the Instagram APK file through your mobile browser. You can find a list of suitable APKs here. The reel-free version starts from around 150.0.0.

Note that when installing the app, select "Install unknown sources". Then go to the Google Play Store and set the Instagram app not to update. In "App Settings" or "Manage apps and device", find Instagram and deselect "Enable auto update".

Instagram lite

Reels are not yet supported by Instagram Lite. Instagram Lite may soon get this feature, but as of right now, nothing has been said about it. You may use Instagram without reels by downloading Instagram Lite, which is available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.