Download Instagram from the official app store on your device
Instagram is available through the official app stores: the Apple App Store if you use an iPhone or iPad, or Google Play if you use an Android phone. On a computer, you can use Instagram through a web browser without downloading anything, or you can download the Windows or Mac app from Microsoft Store or the Mac App Store.
The steps differ slightly depending on what device you own, but the process takes about two minutes from start to finish. You will need a working internet connection and enough storage space on your device — Instagram typically uses between 100 and 300 megabytes depending on your phone model.
Key Takeaways
- On iPhone, open the App Store, search for Instagram, and tap Get; on Android, open Google Play, search for Instagram, and tap Install.
- You will need to sign in with an existing Instagram account or create a new one using your email, phone number, or Facebook account.
- On a computer, you can visit instagram.com in any web browser without downloading anything, or download the official app from Microsoft Store or Mac App Store.
- If the download stalls or fails, restart your device and check that you have a stable internet connection and at least 500 megabytes of free storage space.
Download Instagram on an iPhone or iPad
Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad — it is the blue icon with a white square. Tap the search tab at the bottom right of the screen, then type "Instagram" in the search box. The official Instagram app will appear at the top of the results, with a camera icon and the word "Instagram" below it.
Tap the button that says "Get" next to the Instagram icon. Your device will ask you to verify your identity using Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password. Complete whichever verification method your phone asks for. The button will change to "Install," then to "Open" once the download finishes. You can now tap "Open" to start Instagram, or close the App Store and find Instagram on your home screen.
Download Instagram on an Android phone
Open Google Play — it is the icon with a white triangle inside a colorful circle. Tap the search icon at the bottom of the screen and type "Instagram" in the search box. The official Instagram app will appear at the top, with a camera icon and the word "Instagram" below it. Make sure it says "Instagram, Inc." as the developer.
Tap the button that says "Install." Your phone will show a list of permissions Instagram needs, such as access to your camera and photos. Tap "Install" again to confirm. The download will begin, and the button will change to "Open" once it finishes. Tap "Open" to start Instagram, or close Google Play and find Instagram in your app drawer.
Download Instagram on Windows or Mac
On a computer, you do not need to download anything to use Instagram. Open any web browser — Chrome, Safari, Edge, or Firefox — and go to instagram.com. You can sign in and use Instagram directly in the browser. This works on Windows, Mac, or Linux computers.
If you prefer a dedicated app, Windows users can open Microsoft Store, search for "Instagram," and tap "Get" on the official Meta Platforms, Inc. app. Mac users can open the Mac App Store, search for "Instagram," and click "Get." Both will download the app to your computer. The app version works the same way as the web version but may run slightly faster.
Sign in or create an account after downloading
When you open Instagram for the first time, you will see a sign-in screen. If you already have an Instagram account, enter your username and password. If you do not have an account, tap "Create new account" and choose whether to sign up with your email address, phone number, or Facebook account. Instagram will walk you through creating a username and password.
After you sign in, Instagram may ask for permission to access your contacts, camera, or photo library. You can allow or deny these permissions — Instagram will still work either way, though some features like taking photos or finding friends will be limited if you deny them.
Troubleshoot a download that stalls or fails
If the download stops partway through or shows an error message, the most common cause is a weak internet connection. Move closer to your Wi-Fi router or switch to a different network if you are using mobile data. Then try downloading again.
If the download still does not work, restart your device completely — turn it off, wait 10 seconds, and turn it back on. Also check that you have at least 500 megabytes of free storage space. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage to see how much space is available. On Android, go to Settings > Storage to check. If your device is nearly full, delete photos, videos, or other apps you no longer need, then try downloading Instagram again.
What to do if Instagram will not open after downloading
If Instagram downloaded successfully but will not open, force-close the app and try again. On iPhone, swipe up from the bottom of the screen to open the app switcher, find Instagram, and swipe it up to close it. On Android, go to Settings > Apps > Instagram, tap "Force Stop," then open Instagram again.
If it still will not open, restart your device. If the problem continues, uninstall Instagram completely and download it again. On iPhone, press and hold the Instagram icon on your home screen, tap "Remove App," then "Delete App." On Android, press and hold the Instagram icon, tap "Uninstall," then confirm. Then download Instagram fresh from the app store using the steps above.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay to download Instagram?
No, Instagram is free to download and use. There are no hidden charges or subscription fees required to create an account or use the basic features. Some businesses pay for advertising tools, but regular users never pay.
Can I download Instagram on a computer?
Yes. You can use Instagram in any web browser by visiting instagram.com without downloading anything. Windows and Mac users can also download the official app from Microsoft Store or Mac App Store if they prefer a dedicated application.
What if I do not remember my Instagram password?
On the sign-in screen, tap "Forgot password?" and enter your username or email address. Instagram will send you a link to reset your password. Check your email inbox and spam folder, click the link, and create a new password.
Does Instagram work without a Facebook account?
Yes. You can create an Instagram account using only your email address or phone number. You do not need a Facebook account, though Instagram will offer to connect them if you have one.
How much storage space does Instagram need?
Instagram typically uses between 100 and 300 megabytes of storage depending on your phone model and how many photos and videos you have saved. You should have at least 500 megabytes of free space available before downloading to avoid problems.