Why Won’t My Instagram Video Load? (11 Proven Fixes for 2025)

That annoying pause where everything grinds to a halt, Instagram video not playing, is more than just a glitch; You tap on a video, expecting it to run instantly, but instead, you’re met with a spinning wheel that never seems to stop.

The aggravation bubbles up as you refresh, hoping for that smooth playback that never arrives, while getting frustrated asking why your Instagram video won’t load. If this sounds all too familiar, don’t give up yet; discover the reasons for Instagram video not loading problems and how to turn those stuck videos into smooth streaming in no time.

(10) Essential Fixes to Solve Instagram Video Not Loading Issues

When you face a video playback error, the whole platform seems to lock up. Nevertheless, the key is knowing where to look and what to try first.

These 10 essential fixes will guide you through the process without overwhelming you, helping you regain control and enjoy flawless video playback in no time.

If the Instagram video loading error persists, check if there are other issues like Instagram Follower Count Not Updating, as some problems occur at the same time and can be fixed together.

1.    Check If Instagram’s Servers Are Down

If you’re facing the infuriating issue of Instagram video not loading, the problem might not be on your end. Sometimes, Instagram’s servers experience outages or glitches that cause videos to fail when uploading or playing back.

• Before troubleshooting device or network issues, rule out a Downdetector outage or other server-side problems causing an Instagram video playback error.
• Check social media for updates about widespread Instagram problems.
• If there’s an outage, wait until Instagram resolves it before retrying your video uploads or playback.

2.    Test Your Internet Connection

A weak or unstable internet connection is one of the most common reasons for Instagram videos not loading. Here’s how to identify and fix connection-related issues to get your Instagram videos working smoothly again.

Common symptoms:

• Uploads stuck mid-process
• Videos are buffering or freezing during playback
• Error messages like Instagram video upload error or silent failures

How to fix?

• Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data to check which is more stable (beware of public Wi-Fi issues).
• Disable and re-enable airplane mode to reset your connection.
• Restart your modem/router to refresh your network connection settings.
• Reboot your phone (force restart recommended) to fix systemic memory or connection issues.
• Retry after 15–30 minutes in case Instagram servers are temporarily overloaded.

3.    Update or Reinstall Instagram

The other cause of Instagram video not loading is that running an outdated app often results in this error.

• Go to your device’s App Store or Play Store, search for Instagram, and tap Update if available.
• If updating doesn’t help, uninstall and reinstall Instagram to clear corrupted app files and reset your installation

4.    Use Supported Video Formats and Specs

One of the most frequent causes of Instagram video not posting is using unsupported formats or exceeding limits on file size or frame rate.

• Format: H.264 MP4 or MOV (must adhere to Instagram video supported formats)
• Audio: AAC codec preferred (264 and AAC codecs)
• Frame rate: Maximum 30fps (Instagram framerate limit)
• Resolution: 1080p with 4:5 aspect ratio (ideal for feed posts)
• Length: 3 to 60 seconds for standard posts
• File size: Under 50MB recommended (video size too large is a common cause of failure)
• Bitrate: Under ~3,500 kbps

How to fix?

• Use apps like CapCut, InShot, or VN to edit MP4 for Instagram export in the right format.
• Professionals can use Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or iMovie
• For business account Instagram users, consider the scheduled Instagram posts tools that auto-format videos

5.    Check for Instagram Blocks or Account Restrictions

If you see an Instagram video not loading or failing to upload, it could be due to blocks or restrictions on your account. Understanding these potential blocks can help you resolve the issue and get your videos back online.

Reasons for blocks:

• Use of copyrighted audio leading to DMCA and copyright block
• Violations of Instagram content guidelines or terms violation
• Overuse of filters or compression can confuse Instagram’s post-processing algorithms
• Suspicious activity or prior infractions resulting in the account being placed in a temporarily banned status

How to resolve?

• Slightly edit your video (crop, blur, or adjust colours) to avoid false positives or blocked Instagram content.
• Remove original audio and use Instagram’s in-app music library instead
• Check your account status. Go to Settings > Account > Account Status
• If blocked, file an appeal via the Instagram appeal form

6.    Repair Corrupted or Unplayable Videos

If your video won’t play on your phone or other players, it might be a corrupted file causing an error.

How to recognize corruption:

• Video won’t open or crashes media players
• Errors during exporting or sharing

Fix?

• Use a reliable video repair tool like Stellar Repair for Video to fix broken MP4 or MOV files.
• Export the repaired video, adhering to Instagram’s video specs
• Test playback locally before attempting another upload

7.    Disable Power Saving Mode

If Instagram videos aren’t loading, your phone’s power saving mode might be the cause.

Effects of power saving mode:

• Restricts background data and slows the CPU
• Causes Instagram videos not to load or upload errors

How to disable?

• iPhone: Settings > Battery > Disable Low Power Mode
• Android: Settings > Battery > Disable Power Saving Mode

Turning off power saving mode helps Instagram work properly without video delays or upload failures.

8.    Clear Instagram Cache (Especially on Android)

An accumulated cache might be the cause of the Instagram video not loading. Cache stores temporary data, but corrupted files can slow down video playback or cause upload errors.

If your video isn’t loading on Instagram, one of the most common reasons is that your Instagram cache is full or corrupted. Clearing the cache can fix problems with videos playing and content loading.

• Android: Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage > Clear Cache
• iPhone: Settings > General > iPhone Storage > Instagram > Offload App

9.    Turn Off High-Quality Video Uploads

High-quality upload settings can cause failures over weak networks, resulting in Instagram video buffering or an upload stuck.

Symptoms:

• Uploads are stalling or failing
• Excessive loading times for videos

How to fix?

• Go to Instagram > Profile > Settings & Privacy > Media Quality
• Disable “Upload at Highest Quality” to improve upload success on slow or unstable connections

10. Report Persistent Issues to Instagram

When all else fails and you still face an Instagram video not uploading, do this:

• Instagram > Profile > Settings > Help > Report a Problem
• Provide a detailed description, screenshots, or screen recordings

Why?

• Helps Instagram investigate bugs or specific account issues
• It could lead to a quicker resolution of your Instagram uploading issue

Takeaway

In summary, Instagram video loading issues can feel bothersome, but with the right approach, they’re completely manageable. By understanding the potential causes and knowing where to focus your efforts, you’ll be ready to get your videos playing smoothly again, no stress, no guesswork. Keep this guide handy as your go-to resource whenever Instagram videos act up.

Still asking why my Instagram video won’t load? We explain all in the article. But it is your turn to tell us about your thoughts and experiences with Instagram video not loading. Let us know below; let’s get the conversation rolling!

 

Why does the Instagram video not load?

This could be due to server outages, poor internet connection, or app glitches.

Why won’t my Instagram video upload after editing?

Editing software may change formats or specs; ensure your video meets Instagram’s requirements.

Does power saving mode affect Instagram video playback?

Yes, power saving mode can restrict background data and CPU, causing video loading issues.

How do I update Instagram to fix video problems?

Visit your device’s app store, search for Instagram, and tap Update if available.

Can account restrictions block video uploads?

Yes, violations of guidelines or copyright issues can restrict your ability to upload videos.