Instagram Video Upload Failed – How to Fix
Instagram has become a leading platform for sharing videos—whether it’s Reels, Stories, or regular feed posts. But nothing is more frustrating than spending time creating content, only to be met with the dreaded “Video Upload Failed” error. This comprehensive guide covers every cause, solution, and expert tip to help you resolve Instagram video upload issues, no matter your device or video type.
“Most Instagram video upload failures are caused by simple issues—network, format, or app bugs. With the right troubleshooting, you can get your content live in minutes.”
Why Won’t My Instagram Video Upload?
Instagram video uploads can fail for a wide range of reasons, including:
- Unstable or slow internet connection
- Incompatible video format, size, or length
- App or system bugs
- Outdated Instagram app or OS
- Corrupted app cache/data
- Insufficient device storage
- Account restrictions or policy violations
- Server-side outages or heavy traffic
- Battery saver or data saver mode enabled
Alert: Most upload failures are temporary and can be fixed by following the right steps.
Quick Fixes: What to Try First
- Check Your Internet Connection: Switch between Wi-Fi and mobile data, or reboot your router. A strong, stable connection is essential.
- Restart the Instagram App: Force quit the app and reopen it. This clears minor glitches.
- Update Instagram: Go to the App Store or Google Play and update to the latest version.
- Restart Your Device: Power off and on your phone or tablet to clear background processes.
- Try Again Later: Sometimes, Instagram servers are overloaded—waiting and retrying can solve the issue.
Pro Tip: Always check your connection and app version first—most upload issues are solved with these two steps.
Advanced Fixes for Persistent Upload Failures
-
Clear Instagram Cache (Android):
Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage > Clear Cache. For iOS, offload the app and reinstall. -
Free Up Storage Space:
Delete unused apps, photos, or videos. Low storage can block uploads. -
Disable Data Saver or Battery Saver:
In Instagram settings, turn off Data Saver. On your device, disable battery/data saving modes. -
Log Out and Back In:
Log out of Instagram, close the app, reopen, and log back in. -
Uninstall and Reinstall Instagram:
Remove the app and reinstall it from your app store. This can fix stubborn bugs. -
Try a Different Device:
Upload from another phone, tablet, or computer to see if the issue is device-specific. -
Check App Permissions:
Ensure Instagram has access to storage, camera, and background data. -
Update Your OS:
Install the latest updates for Android or iOS—outdated systems can cause compatibility issues.
Instagram Video Specs: Format, Size, and Length Requirements
Instagram only supports certain video formats and specs. Uploading a video that doesn’t meet these can cause errors or endless “preparing” messages.
| Video Type | Format | Max Size | Length | Resolution | Aspect Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feed Video | MP4 (H.264 + AAC) | 650MB | 3s – 60s | 1080 x 1350 px | 4:5, 1:1, 16:9 |
| Reel | MP4 (H.264 + AAC) | 4GB | 3s – 90s | 1080 x 1920 px | 9:16 |
| Story | MP4 (H.264 + AAC) | 4GB | 1s – 60s | 1080 x 1920 px | 9:16 |
- Frame rate: 30fps (recommended)
- Bitrate: 3,500 kbps (recommended)
- Audio: AAC, 44.1 kHz, up to 128 kbps
Pro Tip: Always export your videos as MP4 (H.264 + AAC) for best compatibility.
How to Convert Videos for Instagram
- Use a video converter (like VideoProc, HandBrake, or Adobe Media Encoder).
- Select MP4 (H.264) as the format.
- Set resolution to 1080x1920 (for Reels/Stories) or 1080x1350 (for Feed).
- Trim video length to fit Instagram’s limits.
- Compress file size if needed (under 4GB for Reels/Stories, 650MB for Feed).
If you get a “VideoSourceAudioStreamCheckException” or similar error, always check your codec and format settings.
Common Error Messages and What They Mean
- “Video upload failed. Please try again later.” – Network, format, or app bug.
- “Keep Instagram open to finish posting...” – App needs to remain open; backgrounding the app can pause uploads.
- “Reel not uploaded. Something went wrong...” – Often a format, network, or server issue.
- “Preparing...” or endless spinning wheel – Usually a format, size, or connection problem.
- “VideoSourceAudioStreamCheckException” – Codec or format mismatch; re-export as MP4/H.264.
Device-Specific Troubleshooting for Video Uploads
| Device | Common Issues | Recommended Fixes |
|---|---|---|
| Android | Cache/data corruption, old OS, permissions | Clear cache/data, update OS, check permissions |
| iPhone/iPad | App not updated, iOS bugs, storage full | Update app/iOS, offload app, free storage |
| Tablet | Incompatible app version, low RAM | Update app, close background apps |
| Older Devices | Unsupported OS, outdated hardware | Use Lite version, update device, or upgrade |
How to Fix Instagram Video Upload Stuck on “Preparing” or “Posting”
- Check and improve your network connection.
- Close all background apps to free up RAM.
- Clear Instagram cache and data.
- Re-export the video to match Instagram’s specs.
- Try uploading during off-peak hours (less server traffic).
- Disable battery/data saver and background app restrictions.
- Restart your phone and try again.
How to Fix “VideoSourceAudioStreamCheckException” and Format Errors
- Open your video in a video editor (DaVinci Resolve, Premiere, etc.).
- Export as MP4 with H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec.
- Check frame rate (30fps) and resolution (1080x1920 for Reels/Stories).
- Re-upload the video to Instagram.
How to Fix Instagram Reels/Stories Upload Stuck
- Make sure your video meets Instagram’s specs (format, size, length).
- Clear app cache/data and restart device.
- Try uploading from another device or account.
- Update both app and OS to latest versions.
- Check for any account restrictions or policy violations.
- Remove and re-add the video, or trim/re-export it.
What to Do If Your Account or Video Is Blocked
- Review Instagram’s Community Guidelines and Terms of Use.
- Delete any videos that may violate policies.
- Contact Instagram support if you believe your account was blocked by mistake.
- Wait 24–48 hours and try again—temporary restrictions are common.
Comparison Table: Instagram Video Upload Fixes
| Fix | Speed | Success Rate | Difficulty | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check Connection | Instant | High | Easy | Most common issue |
| Restart App/Device | Fast | High | Easy | Clears minor bugs |
| Update App/OS | Fast | High | Easy | Fixes compatibility bugs |
| Clear Cache/Data | Moderate | High | Moderate | Frees up storage |
| Re-export Video | Moderate | High | Moderate | Fixes format errors |
| Try Another Device | Fast | Moderate | Easy | Device-specific bugs |
| Contact Support | Slow | Low | Moderate | For persistent issues |
Pros & Cons of Instagram’s Video Upload System
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
User Experience & Real-World Feedback
- Most users fix upload issues by checking video specs, updating the app, or switching networks.
- Some report persistent problems on older devices or with unsupported formats.
- Web version can be used as a backup during app outages.
- Instagram support is helpful for widespread issues, slower for individual cases.
Security, Legitimacy & Privacy
Only use the official Instagram app from the App Store or Google Play. Avoid third-party apps or APKs. Never share your password or upload copyrighted content without permission.
Compatibility: Devices & Platforms
Instagram video uploads work on Android, iOS, tablets, and web browsers. Some features may be limited on older devices or web.
Who Is Affected?
- Android and iOS users equally
- Older devices with low storage or outdated OS
- Accounts with policy violations or restrictions
- Anyone after a major Instagram update
- Users uploading unsupported video formats
How to Avoid Instagram Video Upload Problems in the Future
- Always export videos as MP4 (H.264 + AAC)
- Keep video length and size within Instagram’s limits
- Update your app and OS regularly
- Use a strong, stable internet connection
- Clear app cache/data periodically
- Don’t use automation tools or bots
- Check your account status for restrictions
Pro Tip: Upload videos during off-peak hours for faster processing and fewer errors.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most common reasons are weak internet, unsupported video format/size, app bugs, or server issues. Follow the troubleshooting steps above to fix it.
MP4 (H.264 video codec + AAC audio codec) is the most compatible format for all Instagram uploads.
Check your network, clear app cache, restart your device, and re-export your video to match Instagram’s specs.
Yes, you can upload videos via instagram.com on desktop browsers. Make sure your video meets Instagram’s specs.
Review Instagram’s guidelines, delete any violating videos, and contact support if you believe it’s a mistake. Most restrictions are temporary.
Conclusion: Get Your Instagram Videos Uploading Again
Instagram video upload failures are frustrating, but almost always fixable. Start with the basics—check your connection, update your app, and ensure your video meets Instagram’s specs. For persistent issues, clear cache, re-export your video, or try another device. Stay up to date, follow best practices, and your videos will upload smoothly.
