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What Are Instagram Reels? Algorithm, Best Practices & Growth in 2026

Instagram Reels are short vertical videos up to 90 seconds shown in a dedicated discovery feed. Learn how the Reels algorithm works and how to grow your reach in 2026.

Published: 2026-02-27

Author: VidMakerPro Team

What Are Instagram Reels?

Instagram Reels are short-form vertical videos up to 90 seconds long that appear in a dedicated Reels feed on Instagram. Introduced in 2020 as Instagram's response to TikTok, Reels have become Instagram's primary discovery mechanism — the main way non-followers find and engage with new accounts.

Reels appear in:

  • The dedicated Reels feed (accessible from the main navigation)
  • The Explore page
  • Followers' main feed (interspersed with photos and Stories)
  • The creator's profile grid

How the Instagram Reels Algorithm Works

Instagram's Reels algorithm prioritizes content based on:

Engagement signals:
  • Watch-through rate (most important)
  • Likes, comments, shares, and saves
  • Sends (when a viewer shares the Reel via DM)
  • Profile visits generated by the Reel
Content signals:
  • Audio used (original audio vs. trending audio)
  • Visual content quality and originality
  • Caption keywords and hashtags
  • Whether the video is original or repurposed from another platform (TikTok watermarks are penalized)
User personalization:
  • Past interaction history
  • Topics the user engages with
  • Location and language

Instagram Reels vs TikTok

| Factor | Instagram Reels | TikTok |

|---|---|---| | Max length | 90 seconds | 10 minutes | | Audience age | Slightly older | Younger skew | | Discoverability | Strong (Explore page) | Very strong (FYP) | | Monetization | Bonuses + brand deals | Creator Fund + brand deals | | Shopping integration | Strong | Growing |

Best Practices for Reels Growth

1. Use original audio or trending sounds: Instagram boosts Reels with audio native to Instagram

2. No TikTok watermarks: Cross-posting with watermarks is penalized by the algorithm 3. Post 3–5x per week: Consistent publishing maintains algorithmic momentum 4. Strong first frame: The thumbnail and opening second determine whether people stop scrolling 5. Add text overlays: Many viewers watch with sound off

Creating Reels with AI

AI tools like VidMakerPro generate Reels-ready 9:16 vertical videos with burned-in subtitles, professional voiceover, and engaging visuals. The key advantage for Reels is the ability to publish fresh, original content consistently — which is what the Instagram algorithm rewards most.