Instagram may have started as an image-sharing platform but right now its biggest attraction is bite-sized content in the form of Reels. To enter the world of Reels, all you have to do is tap the play icon at the bottom menu. Unlike YouTube Shorts, you cannot pause a Reel by simply tapping on it once. A single tap mutes the Reel instead of pausing it. The latter can be achieved by tapping and holding the Screen. If you’re still not able to pause Instagram Reels and videos, here are some common fixes for the issue.

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Clear app cache

Step 1: Go to Settings and select Apps.

Step 2: Scroll down and select Instagram.

Step 3: Tap on Storage.

Step 4: Select Clear Cache from the bottom of the screen.

Force Stop Instagram

Step 1: Go to Settings.

Step 2: Scroll down and select Apps.

Step 3: Scroll down and select Instagram.

Step 4: Select Force Stop from the bottom menu.

Clean your phone’s screen

In order to pause an Instagram Video or Reel, you need to tap and hold it. This gesture won’t register if there’s something wrong with your phone’s touchscreen. It is common for the touchscreen to malfunction when there’s some moisture or dirt on it. Wipe it clean using a micro fibre cloth and try again. Additionally, make sure your hands aren’t wet as well.

Remove the screen protector

A faulty Screen Protector can create problems on the touchscreen. Some parts of the screen may become unresponsive. This may lead to Instagram Reels and videos not pausing when you press and hold the touchscreen. Remove the screen protector from your phone and try again.

Increase touch sensitivity

If you don’t want to remove the screen protector, you can simply increase your screen’s touch sensitivity in order to make it work. With heightened sensitivity, your phone’s touchscreen can pick up the faint touches that would otherwise go unnoticed because of the screen protector getting in the way. Go to Settings>Display and switch on the toggle bar for Touch sensitivity.

Restart your phone

Restarting your phone can fix any minor background issues on the OS or any one of the apps. Simply press and hold the side key and volume down key and select ‘Restart’ from the power options. Once your phone has rebooted, launch the Instagram app and check if you are able to pause Reels and videos again.

Update the Instagram app

If you are using an older version of the Instagram app, chances are that the issue you are facing has already been fixed on a later update. Simply go to the Google Play Store, search for Instagram, and hit the ‘Update’ option. Once the app has been updated, you will be able to pause the Reels and videos again.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I pause a video or Reel on Instagram?

To pause a video or Reel on Instagram, simply press and hold your phone’s screen.

Why are Instagram Reels and videos not pausing on my phone?

A faulty touchscreen and an older version of the app may be the reason why you are not able to pause the Reels and videos on Instagram.

How do I fix the ‘Reels won’t pause’ issue on Instagram?

Force stop the Instagram app and clear its cache. Additionally, make sure the screen protector isn’t impeding the performance of the touchscreen. Give the touchscreen a good wipe as well.

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Conclusion 

This is how you can fix the ‘Reels and videos not pausing’ issue on Instagram. These methods should fix the issue you’re facing. You should also know that some ads that you come across while browsing Reels cannot be paused. If you found this article helpful, let us know in the comments!

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