How to Make a Video Call on Instagram: The Definitive Guide

Want to connect face-to-face with friends, family, or even business contacts right from your Instagram feed? You’re in luck! Instagram’s video call feature is remarkably intuitive and readily accessible. Let’s dive straight into how you can initiate a video call and explore some hidden nuances.

Initiating Your Instagram Video Call: A Step-by-Step Guide

Making a video call on Instagram boils down to these simple steps:

1. Open Instagram and Navigate to Direct Messages: Tap the Direct Message icon in the top-right corner of your screen. It resembles a paper airplane.
2. Select the Chat or Person: Find the conversation you want to video call. You can either select an existing chat or start a new one by tapping the pencil icon at the top-right corner.
3. Tap the Video Camera Icon: Once you’re in the chat, look for the video camera icon located at the top-right corner of the screen. Tap it to initiate the video call.
4. Wait for the Recipient to Answer: Instagram will then call the person you selected. All that’s left is to patiently await for them to answer your video call.

That’s it! You’re now engaged in a video call on Instagram. During the call, you’ll have options to mute your microphone, turn off your camera, flip between the front and rear cameras, and end the call. But there’s more to it than meets the eye; let’s explore the finer details and frequently asked questions.

Understanding Group Video Calls

Instagram isn’t just for one-on-one conversations. You can also engage in group video calls with multiple participants. The process is only slightly different:

1. Start a Group Chat: Similar to a single chat, you’ll need to start a group chat. Tap the pencil icon in Direct Messages, and then select multiple people to include in the group.
2. Tap the Video Camera Icon: Inside the group chat, tap the video camera icon as you normally would. This will initiate a video call to the entire group.
3. Participants Join as They Can: Each member of the group will receive a notification inviting them to join the video call.

The beauty of group video calls lies in their versatility, making them perfect for virtual hangouts, team meetings, or collaborative brainstorming sessions.

Troubleshooting Common Video Call Issues

While Instagram video calls are typically seamless, you might occasionally encounter technical glitches. Here are some common issues and how to address them:

• Poor Connection: A shaky internet connection is the most frequent culprit. Ensure you have a strong Wi-Fi or mobile data signal. Try moving closer to your Wi-Fi router or switching to a different network.
• App Issues: Sometimes, the Instagram app itself might be the problem. Try closing and reopening the app. If that doesn’t work, consider updating the app to the latest version or reinstalling it altogether.
• Microphone or Camera Problems: Check your device’s settings to ensure Instagram has permission to access your microphone and camera. Also, make sure your microphone isn’t muted accidentally during the call.
• Recipient Issues: If the issue is on the recipient’s end, politely suggest they check their connection, app settings, or device permissions.

By systematically addressing these potential issues, you can often resolve most video call problems.

Mastering the Art of the Instagram Video Call: Tips and Tricks

Beyond the basics, here are some tips to enhance your Instagram video call experience:

• Use Filters and Effects: Liven up your calls with Instagram’s fun filters and effects. Experiment with different options to add a touch of personality to your conversations.
• Minimize Distractions: Before initiating a call, find a quiet environment free from background noise and interruptions. This will allow you and the other participants to focus on the conversation.
• Be Mindful of Your Appearance: While casual is fine, make sure you’re presentable and appropriately dressed for the call. A little bit of effort goes a long way in conveying professionalism and respect.
• Respect Others’ Time: Be punctual and avoid lengthy small talk, especially in professional settings. Clearly state the purpose of the call and stick to the agenda.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the most common questions people have about Instagram video calls.

1. Can I video call someone who doesn’t follow me?

Yes, you can video call someone even if they don’t follow you, provided they accept your message request. If you’ve never interacted with them before, your video call request might initially appear as a message request.

2. Does Instagram video call consume a lot of data?

Yes, video calls can consume a significant amount of data, especially on mobile data. It’s advisable to use Wi-Fi whenever possible to avoid exceeding your data allowance.

3. How many people can participate in an Instagram group video call?

Currently, Instagram allows up to 8 people to participate in a group video call simultaneously.

4. Can I record an Instagram video call?

No, Instagram doesn’t natively offer a feature to record video calls. You would need to use a third-party screen recording app on your device to capture the call. Ensure you obtain consent from all participants before recording.

5. How do I mute my microphone during an Instagram video call?

During the call, tap the microphone icon on the screen to mute or unmute your microphone. The icon will typically change to indicate whether the microphone is active or muted.

6. Can I use Instagram video call on a computer?

While the Instagram website has limited Direct Message functionality, video calls are primarily designed for the mobile app. Using an Android emulator on your computer might allow video calls, but it’s not officially supported.

7. How do I know if someone is available for a video call on Instagram?

Unfortunately, Instagram doesn’t explicitly show whether someone is currently available for a video call. You’ll simply need to initiate the call and see if they answer.

8. What happens if someone declines my Instagram video call?

If someone declines your call, you’ll receive a notification indicating that they declined the call. You can then send them a message or try calling again later.

9. Can I share my screen during an Instagram video call?

No, Instagram doesn’t offer a native screen sharing feature. For screen sharing, you’ll need to use a different video conferencing platform.

10. Why is my Instagram video call quality poor?

Poor video call quality can stem from various factors, including a weak internet connection, low device processing power, or camera issues. Try improving your connection, closing other apps, and ensuring your camera is clean.

11. How do I report a problem with Instagram video calls?

If you encounter persistent issues with Instagram video calls, you can report it to Instagram through the app’s settings. Navigate to Settings > Help > Report a Problem.

12. Can I use Instagram video call for business meetings?

Yes, Instagram video calls can be used for informal business meetings, especially for quick check-ins or casual discussions. However, for more formal or complex meetings, dedicated video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Google Meet are generally preferred.

Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Face-to-Face Connections on Instagram

Instagram video calls provide a seamless and convenient way to connect with people from all over the world. By understanding the simple steps involved, troubleshooting potential issues, and mastering some helpful tips, you can leverage this feature to enhance your personal and professional relationships. Now go ahead, tap that video camera icon, and start connecting!