How to Download Instagram Reels on Android

3 min read · Updated October 25, 2026

Instagram’s bookmark icon keeps a Reel inside the app, not on your phone. Here’s how to save the actual video file on any Android phone, with no extra app.

1. Copy the Reel link

Open the Reel in Instagram, tap the share icon (paper plane) and choose Copy link. This also works for normal video posts and photo carousels.

2. Paste it into the downloader

Open the Instagram Reel downloader in Chrome (or any browser), paste the link and tap Download.

3. Choose what to save

• Video: the Reel as an MP4 file.
• Audio: just the sound, when the post offers a separate audio track.
• Photo: for carousels, each picture gets its own download button.

4. Find it on your phone

The file goes to your Downloads folder. Open your Gallery and look for the Download album, or use the Files app (“My Files” on Samsung).

What about Instagram’s own Download button?

In some regions Instagram shows a Download option in the share menu of public Reels. When it’s there, the saved video can include an Instagram watermark, and creators can switch the option off. The steps above save the original file either way.

Do I need to log in?

No. Public Reels download without logging in to Instagram, and the saved video keeps its sound and music.

Saving Stories instead?

Stories have their own links. See how to download Instagram Stories.

Troubleshooting

Reels from private accounts can’t be downloaded. If the download fails, make sure you copied the full link (it should contain /reel/ or /p/). More fixes are in our troubleshooting guide.

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