Instagram has rolled out a new feature that allows users to revisit previously watched Reels through a dedicated “Watch History” section — a long-awaited addition that brings the app closer in functionality to its rival, TikTok.
The feature, announced by Instagram Head Adam Mosseri, will help users easily recover videos they may have accidentally scrolled past or closed before saving. It addresses one of the platform’s most common frustrations — losing track of interesting Reels mid-view.
“Have you ever tried to get back to a reel that you’d seen on Instagram and you just can’t find it?” Mosseri said. “Well, there’s a new feature that should help. If you go to your Profile → Settings → Your Activity, you’ll now find Watch History, so you can see every reel you’ve ever watched.”
Just like TikTok’s watch history, users can filter Reels by date, week, month, or even select a custom date range. However, Instagram’s version goes a step further — allowing users to sort their Reels in chronological or reverse chronological order, and even organize them by creator, giving viewers more flexibility and control.
The new Watch History feature was one of the most requested tools from users. Before now, recovering lost videos often meant downloading user data or relying on browser history workarounds — a tedious process that most avoided.
With Watch History, Instagram continues its steady evolution toward enhancing Reels’ usability and creator experience. The feature follows other recent updates, including Reels Series, which lets creators connect multiple videos in a collection, and Picture-in-Picture (PiP) viewing for multitasking — both capabilities that TikTok has long offered.
By introducing this feature, Meta is reinforcing its strategy to make Instagram a comprehensive short-form video platform while improving discoverability and user retention — key factors in the ongoing social media competition.
