Instagram has officially extended the maximum length of Reels from just 3 minutes to a substantial 20 minutes. This update reflects Meta’s response to feedback from millions of content creators worldwide seeking longer formats for storytelling and educational content.
The new feature is readily available to users globally and can be accessed simply by selecting the 20-minute option when creating a Reel. However, Instagram still prioritizes shorter Reels under three minutes for better reach and engagement, because data shows that brevity encourages higher completion rates.
Reels Duration Evolution
Instagram introduced Reels in August 2020 as a response to TikTok’s popularity with an initial limit of only 15 seconds. Over five years, this limit gradually increased:
- 2020 – 15 seconds
- 2021 – extended first to 30 seconds, then to 60 seconds
- 2022 – raised to 90 seconds
- 2023 – 180 seconds (3 minutes)
- October 2025 – 20 minutes
This timeline highlights Instagram’s gradual adjustment to accommodate creators who require longer run times, such as podcasters and educators needing more depth than short clips allow.
How to Use the 20-Minute Reels Feature
To create a 20-minute Reel:
- Open the Instagram app.
- Tap the "+" icon at the bottom center to create new content.
- Select "Reels" as the post type.
- At the bottom of the screen, scroll through duration options and pick 20 minutes.
- Record video directly or upload from the gallery.
It is important to note that this 20-minute limit only applies to Reels, not to Stories or regular Feed videos.
Why Instagram Prefers Shorter Reels
Instagram’s team emphasized that although the 20-minute option exists, the platform will not actively promote longer Reels in Explore or the dedicated Reels tab. Their official data indicates that shorter videos drive better engagement due to:
- Users’ tendency to scroll quickly
- Higher completion rates in short clips
- Algorithms rewarding content that viewers watch fully
Instagram suggests using longer Reels for specific formats such as tutorials, interviews, podcasts, or niche content archives instead of purely chasing viral reach.
New Editing Tools Enhance Content Creation
Alongside the extended duration, Instagram upgraded Reels editing with:
- An intuitive "Undo" button to remove the last clip with a single tap.
- A “Touch-Up” slider to adjust beauty filters from subtle to dramatic effects.
- Improved green screen and countdown features supporting dual video layers and smoother animations.
These enhancements streamline the creation process, enabling creators to produce polished content without external software.
Implications for Creators: Opportunities and Challenges
The 20-minute option expands creative flexibility. It suits formats like in-depth reviews or narrative storytelling, positioning Instagram as a competitor to platforms like YouTube Shorts and TikTok. Still, challenges include possibly lower organic reach and higher viewer drop-off if the content lacks immediate engagement. Some strategic tips include:
- Use lengthy Reels for high-value, information-rich content.
- Create a concise teaser under 60 seconds for promotion.
- Link to the full video in the bio for interested viewers.
Comparison with Other Platforms
Instagram now matches TikTok’s extended video capabilities but differs in content curation philosophy:
- Instagram Reels: 20 minutes
- TikTok: Up to 60 minutes (select accounts)
- YouTube Shorts: 3 minutes
- Facebook Reels: 90 seconds (testing 10-minute videos)
While TikTok encourages exploration of longer videos, Instagram balances this with a strong focus on micro-content engagement.
The extension of Reels duration to 20 minutes underscores Meta’s commitment to creator freedom without disrupting its core algorithm principles. Creators aiming to leverage this format should prioritize quality and engagement to maximize impact, ensuring their videos stop viewers from scrolling past.
