Instagram New 5120×1080 Aspect Ratio for Reels Explained

Learn about Instagram’s new ultra-wide 5120×1080 Reels trend. Discover how to crop videos, why it’s trending, and tips to stand out in 2025.

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Instagram New 5120×1080 Aspect Ratio for Reels Explained
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TL;DR

  • Instagram hasn’t officially launched a new aspect ratio for Reels, but creators are popularizing the 5120×1080 ultra-wide cinematic format (aka the thinnest Reel on Instagram).
  • This format makes videos look cinematic, premium, and unique in the feed.
  • You can achieve the effect by cropping your video in your phone’s gallery — no editing app needed.
  • Best for landscapes, setups, and cinematic storytelling.
  • Use it strategically while it’s trending to stand out.

Does Instagram Have a New Aspect Ratio for Reels?

Many creators are asking: “does Instagram have a new aspect ratio?” The official answer is no, Instagram still requires Reels to be uploaded in the vertical 9:16 format (1080×1920).

But creators are hacking the format with ultra-wide 5120×1080 videos. This creates a slim, cinematic band across the vertical canvas that instantly stands out in the feed.

Instagram 5120×1080 Reels: Why Ultra-Wide Is Trending

The ultra-wide cinematic format is gaining momentum because it breaks the scroll. Instead of filling the screen, it gives Reels a unique “letterbox” look — making them look like film trailers or cinematic shorts.

  • Cinematic storytelling → ideal for landscapes, travel shots, and wide desk setups.
  • Novelty factor → stands out because most Reels still use full vertical space.
  • Perfect for widescreen content → monitor setups, studio tours, panoramic shots.

How to Post Ultra-Wide 5120×1080 Reels (Step by Step)

Here’s the trick: you don’t need advanced editing tools to achieve this.

Save this and recreate while it’s trending!

You can simply crop a video in your phone gallery to achieve this effect. No app editor currently supports the exact 5120×1080 ratio, at least none that we’re aware of.

But by cropping directly in your phone gallery, you can get a very similar look to 5120×1080 that’s going viral all over Instagram.

Steps:

  1. Record your video normally (landscape or ultra-wide setup looks best).
  2. Open it in your phone gallery and use the crop tool.
  3. Crop it down to a super-wide, thin band 5120×1080
  4. Save the cropped version and upload as a Reel (Instagram automatically frames it into vertical 1080×1920).
  5. Add a cover image to avoid black bars showing above and below the video.
  6. Optional: add captions, stickers, or black bars for extra cinematic flair.

That’s it, no Premiere Pro or CapCut templates needed.

Instagram New Aspect Ratio Update: Best Use Cases

Where this Instagram new video aspect ratio shines:

  • Travel & landscapes → panoramic mountain ranges, city skylines.
  • Street photography & B-roll → cinematic vibes for everyday shots.
  • Desk / Monitor setups → especially for ultra-wide screens (5120×1080 monitors).
  • Product teasers → minimal, premium look for launches.

Ultra-Wide Instagram Reels: Pros and Cons

Pros
✅ Stands out in the feed.
✅ Creates a cinematic, premium aesthetic.
✅ Easy to create with just your phone’s gallery crop tool.
✅ Perfect for widescreen setups.

Cons
⚠️ Not an official Instagram feature, purely a trend.
⚠️ Cropping may cut out important details.
⚠️ Can look gimmicky if overused.

Final Thoughts: Should You Try the 5120×1080 Instagram Reels Trend?

The Instagram 5120×1080 ultra-wide trend is blowing up because it feels fresh, cinematic, and different. It’s simple to recreate, and the barrier to entry is low (you just crop in your phone gallery).

If you’re a creator or brand looking to disrupt the scroll and catch attention, this is one of the easiest hacks you can test right now.

But remember: it’s still about storytelling. A cool aspect ratio won’t save boring content — pair it with strong visuals and a compelling hook.

FAQs About Instagram’s New Aspect Ratio

Q: Does Instagram have a new aspect ratio for Reels?

Not officially — it’s still 9:16. But creators and brands are cropping videos into the ultra-wide 5120×1080 format for a cinematic effect.

Q: How do I make a 5120×1080 Reel?

Simply crop your video in your phone gallery into a super-wide format. It won’t be exactly 5120×1080, but it’s close enough to match the trend.

Q: Why is the 5120×1080 format trending?

It breaks the vertical norm, creates a cinematic vibe, and helps Reels stand out in a crowded feed.

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