Instagram video calls do not have built-in effects during the call itself

Instagram's video call feature does not let you explore filters, AR effects, or backgrounds while you are actively on a call with another person. The effects you see in Instagram Stories, Reels, and regular video recordings are not available during live video conversations. This is a technical limitation of how Instagram built its calling system — the effects require processing power that the app reserves for keeping the call stable and clear.

What you can do instead is use your phone's native video call features (like FaceTime on iPhone or Google Meet on Android) if those apps support effects, or you can record a video separately with effects and send it to the person afterward. Some third-party apps like Snapchat do offer filters during video calls, but Instagram itself does not.

Key Takeaways

  • Instagram video calls do not support filters, AR effects, or virtual backgrounds while the call is happening.
  • Effects are available in Instagram Stories and Reels, but the calling system does not include them.
  • FaceTime on iPhone and some Android video apps do offer effects during calls if you want that feature.
  • You can record a video with Instagram effects separately and send it through direct message instead.

Why Instagram calls do not have effects

Video effects require the app to process and render graphics in real time while also managing the video stream, audio, and connection quality. Instagram prioritizes call stability over visual effects — adding effects would slow down the call, increase battery drain, and make the connection more likely to drop, especially on slower internet connections.

Instagram's parent company Meta has focused its effects technology on asynchronous content (Stories, Reels, recorded videos) where the processing happens before you send it, not during a live two-way conversation. The company has not announced plans to add effects to video calls.

How to use effects in Instagram Stories and Reels instead

If you want to share video with effects, you can record a Story or Reel with filters applied, then send it to someone through direct message. Open Instagram, tap the camera icon at the bottom left, swipe left to find the effects you want, record your video, and tap "Your Story" or "Reels" to post it. Once it is posted, the person can view it and you can screenshot or share it with them directly.

Alternatively, record a video in the camera app on your phone, then open Instagram and upload it to Stories or Reels with effects applied in post. Tap the smiley face icon while editing to browse filters. This gives you more control over which effects you use and when they appear in the video.

Video call apps that do support effects

If effects during calls are important to you, consider these alternatives: FaceTime on iPhone and iPad supports Portrait mode and can blur your background; Google Meet on Android and web browsers offers blur and custom background options; Snapchat includes filters during video calls; Facebook Messenger has some background blur features on certain devices.

Each app has different effect options and device requirements. FaceTime effects work best on newer iPhones and iPads. Google Meet backgrounds work on most Android phones and computers. Snapchat's filters are the most extensive but the app is designed primarily for that feature. Test the app you choose with a friend first to see if the effects work on your specific phone model.

Recording video with Instagram effects to send later

You can create a video with Instagram effects and send it through direct message without posting it to your Story. Open Instagram, tap the camera icon, select the effects you want by swiping left, and record your video. Instead of posting to your Story, tap the arrow icon at the bottom right, then select the person you want to send it to. The video will appear in your direct messages with the effects intact.

This approach works well if you want to send a short video with effects to one person or a small group. The recipient will see the effects you applied. Keep videos under 60 seconds for the best results, as longer videos may take longer to process and send.

What information Instagram collects during video calls

Since you arrived from the page about what happens to your information on social media, note that Instagram records metadata about your video calls — who you called, when the call happened, and how long it lasted — but does not record the audio or video content of the call itself. This information is tied to your account and stored on Instagram's servers.

Instagram's privacy policy states that call data is used to improve the service and may be shared with Meta's other companies. If you are concerned about privacy during video calls, review Instagram's full privacy policy or use a different calling app with stronger privacy protections, such as Signal or WhatsApp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a filter during an Instagram video call if I have a newer phone?

No. Instagram video calls do not support filters on any phone model, regardless of how new it is. The limitation is built into the app itself, not your device's processing power. Filters are only available in Stories, Reels, and recorded videos.

Will Instagram add effects to video calls in the future?

Instagram has not announced plans to add effects to video calls. The company has focused on effects for Stories and Reels instead. If this feature becomes available, it will likely appear in an app update notification.

Can I blur my background during an Instagram video call?

No, Instagram does not offer background blur or virtual backgrounds during calls. If you need this feature, use FaceTime, Google Meet, or Facebook Messenger, which all support background options on most devices.

What happens if I record an Instagram video call — does it save with effects?

If you record a video call using your phone's screen recording feature, it will record what appears on your screen, but since no effects are active during the call, the recording will show the call without effects. Recording calls may violate the other person's privacy or local laws, so check before you record.