What is Original Audio on Instagram?

Original Audio on Instagram refers to audio tracks that users create themselves and upload with their videos or Reels.

This feature allows creators to share unique sounds, music, or spoken content that can be used by others on the platform.

Key Points:

  • Custom Sound Creation: Users can record their own audio or upload existing sounds, which can then be added to their posts or Reels.
  • Audio Sharing: Once original audio is created, it becomes available for other users to use in their own content, similar to popular music tracks.
  • Audio Recognition: Original audio tracks can be identified and searched within Instagram, allowing other creators to find and use them easily.
  • Enhanced Engagement: Using original audio can help increase engagement, as it allows creators to establish a unique brand sound or trend.

Overall → Original Audio is a way for users to express their creativity and contribute to the diverse audio landscape on Instagram.


How to Make an Original Sound on Instagram Reels

To make an original sound on Instagram Reels

  1. Open the Instagram app
  2. Make a new Reel: Upload/Record
  3. Edit your video
  4. Post it > Instagram will label as “Original Audio
Caption on Reels

See how this post has an original audio!

Yours will do the same.


Frequently Asked

1. Can you use original music on Instagram Reels?

Yes, you can use original music on Instagram Reels as long as it is your own creation or you have the necessary rights to use it.

Here are the key points to consider:

  • User-Created Music: If you create your own music or sounds, you can use them freely in your Reels. This allows for unique audio that represents your style.
  • Copyrighted Music: Using music that you do not own the rights to, such as popular songs or tracks from artists, is generally not allowed unless it is available in Instagram’s music library.
  • Sharing Original Music: Once you upload a Reel with your original music, it becomes available for others to use in their own Reels, helping to promote your sound within the Instagram community.

In summary, you can freely use and share your original music on Instagram Reels, enhancing your creative content and allowing others to engage with your audio.

2. Why is original audio not available on Instagram Reels?

If original audio is not available on Instagram Reels, it could be due to creation issues, copyright concerns, privacy settings, technical glitches, or guideline violations.

Possible reasons include:

ReasonDescription
Audio Creation IssuesThe original audio may not have been recorded or uploaded correctly, affecting its processing.
Copyright ConcernsIf the audio contains copyrighted material, access may be restricted to avoid infringement.
Privacy SettingsA private account limits audio accessibility, making it available only to followers.
Technical GlitchesBugs or technical issues on Instagram can prevent original audio from being available.
Community Guidelines ViolationsIf the audio or content violates community guidelines, the platform may restrict its availability.

3. How do you save Instagram reels with original audio?

To save Instagram Reels with original audio, tap the three dots (⋮) on the Reel and select “Save” or “Save Video” to download it to your device. If it’s your own Reel, go to your profile, find it, and follow the same steps to save it.

4. Why is original audio not available on Instagram Reels?

Original audio may not be available on Instagram Reels due to copyright concerns, incorrect audio creation or upload processes, privacy settings on the user’s account, technical glitches, or violations of community guidelines. If the audio is flagged or not properly recorded, it can restrict its accessibility for others to use.


Thanks a lot for reading this,
David Ch
Head of the Editing Team at SendShort

About the author

David leads the editing team at SendShort. With this help, the team delivers the latest guides on using your favorite social media apps and creating short-form content.