How to Fix Reels Not Showing on Instagram

Basic Fixes

• Check your Internet connection: You need a stable internet connection to view Instagram reels. So, check your internet speed on Fast and contact your service provider if needed.
• Refresh Instagram feed: Press and hold the top of the screen and pull it down.
• Check for changes in the app layout: If you can’t find the Reels icon at its usual place, check the app’s home screen. The Reel button might be repositioned.
• Find reels elsewhere: Check the Explore page, Stories, DMs, and others’ profiles to see if Reels work elsewhere. If yes, update the app; if not, jump to the fixes.
• Update or reinstall Instagram: To fix the bug causing the issue, update the app (if available) or uninstall and reinstall the app for a fresh, error-free start.

Fix 1. Force Quit Instagram

When you force quit an application, it clears all the active sessions and temporary files. This gets rid of the files responsible for bugs and issues. You can solve it by force quitting the app on your smartphone.

On iPhone

Step 1: Open App Switcher. Next, swipe up from the bottom of the Instagram app to close it.

On Android

Step 1: Open Settings. Go to Apps.

Step 2: Choose Manage apps.

Note: Depending on the Android version and skin, the option names might differ.

Step 3: Select Instagram > hit Force stop.

Step 4: Tap OK to confirm.

Now, try re-opening the Instagram app and see if you can see the Reels option on your profile.

Fix 2. Turn off Instagram Data Saver

Instagram offers a data saver feature for those who might not have data to spare while using the app. Since Reels are the best source to drain data, it might have been blocked if you have turned on data saver. So, try turning off data saver on Instagram and see if Reels are visible on your feed.

Step 1: Open Instagram and go to your profile icon at the bottom > tap the hamburger menu.

Step 2: Tap Settings > choose Account.

Step 3: Choose Cellular data use.

Step 4: Toggle off Data Saver.

Fix 3. Log Out and Log In

If you log out of your Instagram account, the app may remove certain cached files, possibly including those responsible for the error. Once you log in again, Instagram will initiate a fresh session and might bring Reels to your account.

We already have a guide on how to log out and log in to your Instagram account to help.

Fix 4. Clear Cache on Android

Cache files are supposed to store certain settings and data on a device’s local storage to help apps load faster. However, as time passes, these cache files accumulate and cause errors. The solution? Clear cache files of Instagram.