Ever since the TikTok ban, users have been looking for new ways to create quick, fun videos on other platforms. Instagram Reels became the perfect place for this, but sometimes, you want to Fast Forward Instagram Reels to show more content in a limited time.
If you’re like me, you’ve probably wished there was an easier way to fast-forward your Instagram Reels without having to record again using the default function inside the app.
The truth is, while Instagram lets you speed up clips you film inside the app, it doesn’t yet support speeding up an existing video you recorded outside.
And that’s where a little bit of personal trial and error (and a few saved headaches) taught me the tricks to getting around this limit using smart tools and techniques.
Through my experience, I found that using a good third-party editor can help you speed up your videos before uploading them to IG Reels.
Whether you’re working with a pre-recorded video from your gallery or want to pre-upload something new, the process is pretty simple once you know how.
In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to handle an already recorded video, and even touch on some cool updates like the new fast-forward feature announced by the Meta-owned brand.
Trust me, once you understand how to manage your existing videos and fast-forward through the editing process, posting engaging, fast-paced Reels becomes second nature.
What Are Instagram Reels?
Instagram Reels are short, fun videos in 9:16 portrait mode where you can show off creative skills, capture a funny moment, or give your followers a behind-the-scenes peek at life.
After TikTok’s rise in popularity, Instagram introduced this short-form video content feature, letting users film 3-15 seconds clips directly with the Reels camera or upload from their camera roll using a mobile device.
- Instagram decided that all videos under 15 minutes will now automatically become Reels to simplify the user experience.
- Reels can only be uploaded through mobile devices, not desktop.
- You can create Reels easily using Instagram’s built-in tools or upload short clips.
- Whether recording directly or uploading, Reels keep your content engaging and dynamic for followers.
Part 1: How to Speed up Existing Videos for Instagram Reels on iPhone
When I wanted to speed up my existing video for an Instagram Reel on my iPhone, I found that the Hyperlapse app worked best.
It’s an editing app made by Instagram that helps you upload or shoot a new video, then easily change the video speed from 1X to 12X.
Although it doesn’t have extra editing features, it’s great if you just need to speed up videos quickly without any hassle. Here’s how you can do it too:
- Download and install the Hyperlapse app on your iPhone.
- Launch the app and upload a prerecorded video from your gallery.
- Use the speed controller to adjust it starts at 6X by default, but you can drag the slider to make it up to 12X faster.
- Tap the Checkmark to save the changes, then download it to your phone or directly upload it to Instagram.
Part 2: How to Speed up Existing Videos for Instagram Reels on Android
Since Hyperlapse is made for iPhone and iPad only, Android users need a different way to speed up existing videos for Instagram Reels.
I personally love using the Slow-Mo Fast-Mo app, which lets you change the speed of multiple clips or just a specific part of one video super quickly.
- Download SlowMo FastMo from Google Play and install it on your phone.
- Open your existing video in the SlowMo FastMo app, select the part you want, and set it from 1X to 2X.
- After adjusting, save your video and upload it to Instagram.
Limitations of Instagram Reels
Instagram Reels have some limitations that can affect how you interact with them. Here’s a quick look at a few:
- You can pause a reel while watching, but there’s no option to rewind or fast-forward it.
- There’s no progress bar when viewing a reel, so you can’t tell how much time has passed or how long the video is.
- The caption for a reel appears, but in the preview, only one line of text is visible, making it hard to read long descriptions.
- Once you’ve uploaded a reel, you can’t edit the caption; if you want to make changes, you’ll need to delete the video and re-upload it.
4 Tips to Enhance Your Instagram Reel-Watching Experience
a. Use Headphones for Better Audio Quality:
To enjoy Instagram Reels to the fullest, especially those with music, ambient sounds, or detailed instructions, it’s best to use headphones.
By connecting your Bluetooth earbuds or plugging in your headphones before you start watching, you ensure that you catch every nuance in the audio. This enhances your immersive experience, making sure the volume is at a comfortable level.
Whether you’re in a noisy place or just want to get the full effect of the sounds, headphones are a simple way to improve your audio quality.
b. Engage with Content Creators:
When watching Instagram Reels, it’s important not just to passively consume content. Like the Reels that catch your eye by tapping the heart icon. You can also show appreciation or share your thoughts and questions by commenting.
Just tap the speech bubble icon and leave your feedback. If you really enjoy a Reel, don’t forget to share it! Tap the paper plane icon to send it to friends through direct message or share it on your Story.
This not only supports the creators but also helps build a stronger community. Plus, you might even get responses from the creators themselves, which adds to the fun!
c. Save the Reels for Later:
If you find an Instagram Reel you want to revisit, simply save it to your private collection. Just tap the three dots on the Reel, and choose the bookmark icon to save it.
Later, when you want to watch it again, go to your profile, tap the three horizontal lines in the top right corner, and head to Settings and Activity.
From there, click on Saved under the How You Use Instagram section. It’s a quick way to keep your favorite Reels close, without losing track of them.
d. Click the Three Dots to Send Instagram Feedback:
To improve your Instagram experience, you can easily provide feedback directly on a Reel. Simply click the three dots at the bottom right corner of the video, where you’ll find options like Report inappropriate content or the Not Interested button.
These actions help adjust content suggestions based on what you like or don’t like. Sharing your thoughts ensures Instagram will better tailor future Reels to your preferences.
What Else is New with Instagram?
If you love to fast forward Instagram Reels, it’s just as important to keep up with the latest updates too. Recently, Instagram has been rolling out functional enhancements to make the app even more user-friendly.
One cool update I use a lot is the scheduling feature in direct messages, letting me send a text exactly when I want. After an exciting update, Instagram also added a handy option to pin a message in any conversation, making it super easy to find important chats later.
Meanwhile, Instagram is cooking up bigger things with their upcoming app Edits, aimed to rival TikTok and CapCut, giving us more ways to shoot and edit videos directly from our smartphones.
To make sure you don’t miss out, always keep your Instagram app updated and maybe even subscribe to Unboxed by Croma to catch all upcoming features first!
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the fast forward feature on Instagram?
Many users noticed the fast forward option suddenly disappeared from Reels, making it tough to skip ahead by holding on the screen. Earlier, you could easily play a video at double speed just like TikTok, but now Instagram seems to be adjusting playback controls again.
What is the forward button on Instagram?
On Instagram, the forward button lets you skip to the next slide or Story with just a simple tap, making it easy to move ahead quickly when you want to view the next moment without watching the entire current Story.
How do I fast forward a video?
To fast forward a clip, simply upload it into a tool like a video speed changer app, then choose to speed up or slow down the playback; sometimes, I even mute the audio when editing for a cleaner effect using platforms like Adobe Express.
How to speed up reels on Instagram on iPhone?
On my iPhone, I just press and hold either the right side or left side of the screen to speed up the Reel and it works much smoother than on TikTok where you only press the right side.
Why can’t I forward a post on Instagram?
If you’re unable to forward a post on Instagram, it could be because the account has set privacy settings that prevent sharing. Some users prefer to keep their posts private or limited to specific groups, which restricts the ability to forward them. To share more freely, you might need to check the privacy settings or ask the poster to make their account public.
Final Words
Mastering how to fast forward Instagram Reels is easy with Instagram’s new updates. Whether you want to pause, rewind, or fast-forward your Reels, these tools give you full control over your viewing experience. With features like the progress bar and privacy settings, you can customize your experience across any device or operating system. Just take advantage of these features and enjoy a seamless Instagram experience. Tools like these make it easier to enjoy your content just the way you want.
That’s all! You can also check out How To Reorder Photos In Facebook Post – Detailed Guide 2025 and How Do You Send An Anonymous Message On Facebook – 6 Easy Steps
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