Are Long Videos on Instagram Going Away?

Instagram has been a go-to platform for video content. But recent changes have left creators wondering:

Are long videos on Instagram disappearing?

Since the platform is dominated by short-form content, such as Reels, many users believe their lengthy videos are not receiving enough exposure or interaction.

Stats show that short-form videos are taking over. According to Meta, Reels get 200 billion plays per day. People prefer quick, engaging clips over long Instagram videos. Instagram’s focus on Reels means longer videos often get lower visibility. Many creators are frustrated, as they have invested time and effort in producing high-quality, longer videos.

Instagram is not removing long videos entirely. But its algorithm favors shorter, more engaging content. If you rely on long videos, you may need to rethink your strategy.

But do not worry—there are still ways to make longer videos work.

In this post, we will look at what is changing, why it is happening, and how you can adjust your video plan to succeed in 2025.

So let's start…!

Instagram’s Shift Toward Shorter Videos

Instagram started as a photo-sharing app. But over time, it evolved into a video-heavy platform. In 2018, it launched IGTV to compete with YouTube. This allows users to upload long-form videos. However, IGTV never gained much traction. In 2021, Instagram combined IGTV with regular video posts and removed the IGTV app entirely.

At the same time, TikTok was rising in popularity. Its bite-sized videos became a global phenomenon. Which changed how people consumed content. Instagram responded by launching Reels in 2020. Since then, short-form videos have dominated.

A report by Social Insider found that Reels outperform traditional Instagram videos by 22% in engagement.

Instagram’s push for short videos is clear. The algorithm now focuses on content that keeps users on the platform for longer but in shorter sessions. This means that long videos often get buried under an overflow of quick, engaging clips. Instagram long videos still exist, but their reach has been severely limited. If your content strategy revolves around longer videos, you need to adjust your approach to stay relevant in Instagram’s new video landscape.

Is Instagram Permanently Eliminating Long Videos?

No, Instagram is not removing long videos entirely. But they are deprioritizing them. The platform still allows you to upload videos up to 60 minutes. Yet they do not get as much organic reach as Reels. Instagram’s algorithm favors videos that hook viewers quickly and keep them engaged. Short videos naturally fit this model better than long ones.

This does not mean long videos are useless. They still serve a purpose, especially for in-depth storytelling, educational content, and brand awareness. However, they must be optimized for engagement. A 10-minute video would not perform well if it does not grab attention immediately. You also need to encourage interaction through comments, likes, and shares.

For example, if you are a fitness influencer posting a 15-minute workout video, make sure the first few seconds highlight the most exciting part. You could also break the workout into shorter clips and post them as separate Reels. This way, you maintain visibility while still delivering valuable content. Long videos can be effective if they are organized in a way that competes with shorter videos.

How to Make Long Videos on Instagram Work in 2025?

If you are still creating long-form content on Instagram, do not panic. Do not abandon your strategy, but adjust it to fit the platform's current landscape. Here is how:

1. Make the First 3 Seconds Count

Attention spans are shorter than ever. If your video does not grab viewers immediately, they will scroll away. Instagram tracks how quickly users engage with your content. So the first few seconds are crucial.

Start with a strong hook. Instead of a slow introduction, jump right into the most exciting part.

For example,

Instead of saying, “Today, I will show you how to grow your Instagram,” you should say,

“Want 10x more engagement? Do this now!”

This instantly sparks curiosity and encourages viewers to keep watching.

Also, use eye-catching visuals, text overlays, or movement in the first few seconds. This increases the likelihood of viewers stopping to watch your content instead of scrolling past.

2. Use Engaging Thumbnails and Titles

Your video’s thumbnail and title play a huge role in attracting viewers. Since Instagram auto-plays videos in the feed, the first frame of your video acts as a thumbnail. Make sure it is visually appealing.

Use bright colors, bold text, and catchy imagery to grab attention. A title like “Why Your Instagram Videos Flop (And How to Fix It)” is far more compelling than “Instagram Video Tips.” The goal is to spark curiosity and make people want to watch.

3. Break Instagram Long Videos into Shorter Clips

If you have a long video, do not just post it once and forget about it. Repurpose it into multiple short clips to maximize engagement.

For instance, if you record a 10-minute podcast, extract key highlights and post them as 30-second Reels. This way, you keep your content circulating without having to create something new every day. It also increases the chances of your message reaching a larger audience.

This strategy works exceptionally well for educational content, interviews, and tutorials. Instead of overwhelming viewers with a long video, give them digestible snippets that leave them wanting more.

4. Add Captions & On-Screen Text

Did you know that 85% of Instagram users watch videos with the sound off?
This means captions are essential. Adding subtitles makes your content accessible to a wider audience and keeps viewers engaged longer.

For example,

If you are explaining a concept in a long video, use on-screen text to highlight key points. This makes it easier for viewers to follow along. Even if they are watching without sound. Tools like Instagram’s auto-caption feature or third-party apps can help you add subtitles quickly.

5. Encourage Interaction

Instagram favors content that gets engagement. If people are commenting, liking, and sharing your video, the algorithm will boost its visibility. But you need to encourage interaction.

Instead of just delivering information, ask viewers a question.

For example, “What’s your biggest challenge with Instagram videos? Drop a comment below!”

This invites responses and increases engagement. You can also use stickers, polls, and CTAs to prompt interaction.

What About Instagram Video Ads?

Longer videos still have value in Instagram’s ad ecosystem. While short video ads get more immediate attention, longer ads are great for storytelling and brand awareness. Businesses use them for product demos, behind-the-scenes content, and detailed explanations.

For example, a beauty brand might use a 30-second ad to showcase a new lipstick, while a car company might use a 2-minute ad to highlight a vehicle’s features.

Testing both short and long ad formats can help you determine what works best for your audience.

Final Words

Long videos on Instagram are not disappearing. But they are getting less exposure. If you want to stay relevant, you need to adapt. Focus on engagement, use strong hooks, and repurpose content into shorter clips.

Short videos may be very popular, but good long Instagram videos still matter as long as they are made to keep viewers interested. The key is to work with Instagram’s algorithm, not against it.