Instagram has rolled out a new single-tap pause feature for Reels across its platforms. The Meta-owned company announced the update via Threads, making it easier for users to interact with short-form video content. The change eliminates the previous tap-and-hold gesture required to pause playback.

Previously, tapping a Reel would only mute the audio, while pausing required a more deliberate action. With this update, users can now pause videos instantly with a single tap, and the mute option appears only after playback has stopped. The feature is available on both mobile apps and the web interface.

This update follows Instagram's December 2025 announcement of a dedicated TV app for Reels. The platform continues refining its video features to compete with TikTok and improve user experience. By simplifying the pause function, Instagram aims to make content consumption more intuitive and reduce friction in the viewing process.