Instagram introduced reels in 2020 as a way for users to showcase their creativity or brands using short, immersive, and educative videos.

Initially, reels were only 15 seconds long, but currently, you can make reels up to 90 seconds. If you use Instagram frequently, you’ve likely come across reels that you like or contain valuable information.

You want to pause those but cannot find a way. So, how can you pause an Instagram reel?

To learn more about pausing reels on Instagram, read this article to the end.

Overview of Pausing Instagram Reels

Instagram reels are short entertainment videos that can run for 90 seconds. The most common reel lengths are between 15 and 60 seconds long.

Unlike Instagram stories, reels don’t have a 24-hour timeline. The reels will be available in your profile unless you delete them.

Instagram reel popularity has steadily risen over the years. This hike is mainly because Instagram’s algorithm currently recommends reels to non-followers more than it does posts.

Additionally, users and creators prefer reels because they have several unique editing tools and an audio tracks library. The library features a variety of tracks, including old classics and popular or tending music.

You can also add filters, backgrounds, captions, and video clips to your reels to make them more entertaining. Another factor that makes reels popular is that Instagram has a section dedicated to reels.

For short videos like reels, it would be ideal to pause the video and get a closer look at something you like. Unfortunately, the Instagram app doesn’t have a pause reel function.

The best news is this article explains a method you can use to stop the video momentarily, even without the pause button.

Next, we cover the exact steps to pause an Instagram Reel.

Step-by-Step Guide on Pausing Instagram Reels

There are two ways to pause an Instagram reel, depending on the platform:

Method #1: Instagram Mobile App

Follow the steps below to pause a reel on the Instagram mobile app:

  • Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device.Tap on the reel icon at the bottom (the one in the center).Scroll down to find a reel you like.To pause, place your finger on the video without releasing it. You’ll notice that the reel will pause.Remove your finger to continue playing the reel.

Method #2: Instagram Desktop Version

Follow the steps below to pause a reel on Instagram desktop version:

  • Navigate to Instagram on your favorite browser.Go through your feed to find a reel you like.To pause, click in the middle of the reel. A white play icon appears in the middle of the reel.Click on the play icon to continue playing.

Summary

Reels are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a way to increase engagement and grow your Instagram following.

To make creative and entertaining reels utilize a wide array of editing and innovative tools like filters, effects, backgrounds, captions, and video clips. You can also choose appropriate audio for your reel from the vast library.

Instagram doesn’t have a pause reel function for its mobile app. The next best thing is placing your finger on the reel to pause it. Keep your finger on the reel for as long as is necessary, then release to start playing.

To pause a reel on the Instagram desktop version, click in the middle of the reel.