Relive Your Favorite Instagram Stories from 2021

2021 was a chaotic year--and in the midst of trips, holidays, work, get-togethers and family vacations, it's easy to forget what happened earlier in the year. Review 2021 with Instagram Playback, a new feature that commemorates the end of the year. Browse memories that you've forgotten about, then share the stories so your followers reminisce along with you.

What is Instagram Playback?

Instagram Playback offers a selection of stories that you posted in 2021. Like Spotify Wrapped, Playback is a highlight reel of the past year. You'll see ten stories when you open your Playback reel. From there, you can post the reel as-is or add, edit or remove stories before you share it with your followers.

Playback stories can include anything: pictures, illustrations, music, videos and anything else that you shared in 2021. You'll get a variety of stories from throughout the year to refresh memories that you might have forgotten about.

To make your reel fancier, add 2021-themed frames and stickers to showcase your memories. Just make sure that you act quickly--Instagram Playback will likely disappear by the end of the year.

Why Did Instagram Launch This Feature?

Instagram Playback reminds you why you downloaded this app in the first place. You use Instagram to talk to friends, share photography, post-life updates and preserve your memories. It's all here in your Playback reel--and when you see how much you accomplished, you'll set goals for 2022 that take you even further. Playback also makes a great marketing tool for business owners who want to celebrate their achievements.

Reasons to Review Your Favorite Stories

Even if 2021 was a challenging year, Playback gives you a new perspective. Here's why you might want to review your top stories:

• You'll review accomplishments throughout the year: taking a road trip, getting a new job, starting a relationship.

• If you posted a lot of music, you'll see what you've been listening to throughout the year.

• You'll look back on trips, adventures and memories that you'd forgotten about.

• For artists, you'll see how your work improved throughout 2021.

• You'll reflect on past challenges and think about how you can make 2022 easier.

• You'll see treasured photographs of friends, pets and family members.

• As you browse stories from the previous months, you'll feel a sense of closure and accomplishment.

You don't need a reason to share your Playback reel--just the fun of sharing your life with your followers can be enough.

How Does Instagram Choose Stories to Include?

It's unclear why Instagram chooses specific stories. Some speculate that the stories are randomized, while others theorize that popularity or hashtags play a role. Either way, you don't control the stories that Instagram selects--but you choose which stories that you want to share. This means that you don't have to share embarrassing pictures of a party or ex-partner.

Does Instagram Have Playback for Photos?

Currently, Instagram does not have a playback option for traditional posts. Some third-party apps offer this feature, but you might have to enter personal information. However, you could review your posts manually and create a photoset of your favorite memories.

How Can You Access Instagram Playback?

When you open Instagram, you'll see a banner at the top of your feed inviting you to access Instagram Playback. Review the stories that you see, then select stories and share them with your followers. If the banner doesn't appear, you can access Instagram Playback whenever another user shares their Playback stories. Simply hit the button on their stories to view your reel.

Ready to reflect on your past accomplishments? Log onto Instagram to view your 2021 highlight reel.