By Onur Demirkol 
Instagram Reels are short vertical videos that last up to 90 seconds. You can add music, effects, and edits directly in the app. Instagram launched Reels in 2020 to compete with TikTok. Since then, Reels have become one of the most popular features on the platform.
They appear in your feed, in the Reels tab, and on the Explore page. This helps your videos reach more people, not just your followers. Reels now play a big role in how users discover new content on Instagram.
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Quick answer: An Instagram Reel is a short-form video designed to reach users through Instagram’s recommendation system. It supports audio, effects, and editing tools.
Unlike Stories, Reels stay on your profile unless you delete them. They also appear in places where non-followers can see them. This makes Reels more useful if you want to grow your audience.
You can upload a video or record it inside the app. Then you can add music, change the speed, and apply visual effects. Reels allow you to create polished videos without extra apps.
The Instagram video format has changed a lot. Before Reels, people used IGTV for long videos and Stories for quick updates. But users wanted something in between—short, permanent videos that could still go viral.
That’s why Instagram created Reels. Now, anyone can make high-quality content. The app provides tools that let users edit videos, sync with music, and tell stories in a fast and fun way.
Main features of Reels:
- Up to 90 seconds long
- Vertical 9:16 format
- Music from Instagram’s audio library
- Visual effects and filters
- Multi-clip editing inside the app
- Speed control and countdown timer
These tools are free and easy to use. You don’t need any editing experience.
Both Reels and Stories let you post short videos. But they work very differently.
Instagram Reels are public and permanent. The algorithm helps them reach new people. They are best when you want to grow your followers.
Instagram Stories disappear after 24 hours. They only show up to your followers. They are good for behind-the-scenes content or quick updates.
| Feature | Instagram Reels | Instagram Stories |
| Reach | Public and algorithm-based | Follower-only |
| Duration | Up to 90 seconds | 15 seconds per slide |
| Lifespan | Stays on profile | Disappears in 24 hours |
| Purpose | Grow audience, go viral | Connect with existing followers |
| Content style | Edited, polished | Raw, casual |
If you want more views and followers, choose Reels. If you want to update your current audience, use Stories.
The Instagram algorithm decides who sees your Reels. It looks at how people interact with your video. It shows Reels to users who are likely to enjoy similar content.
Reels generate 140–200 billion daily views across Instagram and Facebook. On top of that, Reels get 22% more engagement than regular videos, making them more powerful for growth.
Here’s what matters most:
- Watch time: Full views help more than likes.
- Saves and shares: These are strong signals of value.
- Comments: Instagram sees these as signs of real interest.
- Repeat views: When people watch more than once, your Reel performs better.
- Popular audio: If you use trending music, your Reel can reach more people.
If your video keeps users watching, the algorithm promotes it to others. This increases your chances of going viral.
Many people ask why Instagram Reels go viral. Reels reach 1.36× more users than carousel posts, which helps creators go viral more easily when content aligns with trends. There is no single answer, but some patterns are clear. Most viral Reels share these five traits:
- Strong opening: The first three seconds matter the most. You need to grab attention right away. Use a quick visual, bold text, or an interesting question.
- Popular audio or trends: If you use a trending song or take part in a challenge, more people will discover your video.
- Relatable content: If your video makes people say, “This is so me,” they will share it.
- Value in a short time: Viral Reels are often between 15 and 30 seconds long. They deliver information or emotion quickly.
- Good timing: Post when your audience is active. Early engagement helps you reach more people.
You don’t need luck. You just need to know what works and stay consistent.
To create a Reel, open Instagram, tap the “+” icon, and choose “Reel.” You will see tools that let you record, cut, and edit your video.
Tips for planning your first Reel:
- Focus on one clear idea
- Use the right audio for your message
- Add text if your video has no talking
- End with a call to action like “Follow for more”
- Keep it short and easy to understand
Popular formats include:
- Step-by-step tips
- Before and after videos
- Short tutorials
- A day in the life
- Simple transformations
Don’t worry about making it perfect. Keep it useful and clear. That’s what matters.
Businesses can grow faster with Instagram Reels. They help brands reach more users without paid ads. People trust Reels because they feel real and less forced.
Here are some ideas for business Reels:
- Show how your product works
- Share quick industry tips
- Tell customer success stories
- Show how your team works
- Share useful advice related to your niche
Focus on value. Don’t just try to sell. Teach, entertain, or inspire.
Some common mistakes can limit your reach:
- Posting videos with a TikTok watermark
- Uploading horizontal videos instead of vertical
- Skipping captions or text
- Using copyrighted music
- Posting randomly with no schedule
- Ignoring analytics after posting
Avoiding these mistakes will help your Reels perform better and grow your profile faster.
To grow with Instagram Reels, you need to track what works. Use Instagram Insights to check your stats.
Focus on these metrics:
- Total plays compared to your follower count
- Average watch time
- Save and share counts
- Comments per video
- How many people visit your profile from each Reel
Post 3 to 5 times per week. Use 3–5 relevant hashtags per video. Stick to one content theme and make changes based on your best-performing Reels.
Instagram keeps improving Reels. New tools arrive often. These updates will give you more ways to create and connect.
What to expect next:
- AI tools for editing
- More shopping features
- Longer video options
- Better stats and analytics
- Easier cross-posting to other Meta platforms
If you want to grow your reach on Instagram, Reels are your best option.
Instagram Reels offer a fast and powerful way to grow your audience. You can use simple tools to create videos that entertain, teach, or inspire. The algorithm helps you reach people who don’t follow you yet. That’s why Reels are now the top growth tool on Instagram.
You don’t need special equipment or a big budget. All you need is a good idea and some consistency. Start now, test what works, and stay focused. With time, your Reels will get better, and your results will improve.