Instagram has rolled out a new feature that allows creators to link Reels together, offering audiences a more seamless way to explore series-based content. With the rise of episodic formats on the platform, this feature makes it easier for users to follow creators’ stories or topics across multiple Reels.
According to Instagram, “the update comes as more people share content in an episodic format, with many gaining traction through ‘Reels series.’” The move highlights Meta’s focus on boosting engagement by encouraging longer watch times and helping creators organize their videos more effectively.
The option is available for both newly uploaded and previously posted Reels, giving creators the flexibility to build long-term themed content. However, some restrictions apply. As Instagram clarifies, “subscriber-only reels and those shared with close friends cannot be linked.” For all other content, this update opens new opportunities for creators to retain and grow their audience base.
With this update, creators can connect their Reels under a specific theme or series, allowing audiences to continue watching related content without interruption. The platform hopes this will improve content discovery and retention.
To link a freshly uploaded Reel, follow these steps:
When creating a reel, tap Link a reel below the caption box.
Select the reel you want to connect (only one can be chosen).
Add a title of up to 15 characters, or leave it as Linked reel.
Tap OK to confirm your selection.
Tap Share to publish your reel with the link.
Note: “The title of the linked reel will only appear on the reel it’s linked to. You can edit or remove the title at any time. If no title is added, it defaults to Linked reel. The title of your reel can be up to 15 characters.”
If you want to connect a Reel that’s already been posted:
Tap on the right side of your reel.
If no link exists, tap Add linked reel.
If a reel is already linked, tap Edit linked reel.
Instagram has also given creators the flexibility to edit or remove links at any time.
“It is to be noted that you can edit or unlink your linked reel during the creation process. Once you unlink a reel, it no longer appears on the reel it was first linked to.”
After selecting your linked reel, the Edit linked reel screen will appear.
To switch reels, tap Change reel.
To remove a link, tap Unlink below Edit linked reel.
Tap Unlink again to confirm.
This flexibility ensures that creators can manage and restructure their series as needed.
The link Reels option is designed to improve content organization and enhance audience engagement. By connecting related videos, creators can:
Increase watch time and retention.
Help audiences explore episodic or thematic content.
Build stronger storytelling formats.
Drive higher engagement compared to standalone Reels.
This update aligns with Instagram’s ongoing push to position Reels as a key driver of growth and engagement, competing with TikTok and YouTube Shorts.
Instagram’s introduction of the Link Reels feature represents a significant step in the platform’s ongoing effort to strengthen Reels as a centerpiece of user engagement. By allowing creators to connect related videos into a structured series, Instagram is making it easier for audiences to consume content in a continuous, narrative-driven format.
This not only benefits creators by boosting watch time, retention, and discoverability but also enhances the viewer experience, making it more seamless and interactive.
The flexibility to link both new and existing Reels, along with the option to edit or unlink at any time, gives creators greater control over their content strategy. While limitations remain for subscriber-only and close-friends Reels, the feature opens up a new pathway for building communities around themes, stories, and episodic content. As Instagram continues to compete with TikTok and YouTube Shorts, the Link Reels update could prove pivotal in keeping creators—and audiences—more engaged than ever.