How To Save Videos on Instagram to Your Phone: The Definitive Guide

The burning question on every Instagram user’s mind: How do I save those captivating videos to my phone? Let’s cut to the chase: Instagram doesn’t offer a straightforward, built-in “download” button for saving videos posted by other users directly to your phone’s gallery. However, fear not! There are several legitimate and clever workarounds, depending on whether you’re trying to save your own videos, someone else’s public posts, or content from Stories. This guide will navigate you through each method, ensuring you never miss out on preserving those precious Instagram moments.

Saving Your Own Instagram Videos

This is the easiest scenario. Instagram understands you might want to keep your own creations!

Downloading Your Reels

Reels are the darlings of Instagram, and thankfully, saving them is a breeze.

1. Open the Reel you want to save.
2. Tap the three dots (the “More” option) at the bottom right of the screen.
3. Select “Save to Camera Roll”.

Boom! Your Reel is now safely tucked away in your phone’s gallery. Note that if you used music from Instagram’s library, the downloaded video will typically not include the audio due to copyright restrictions. To save Reels with the music, use a screen recording as described later.

Downloading Your Instagram Stories

Stories are ephemeral by nature, disappearing after 24 hours. But what if you want to keep one for posterity?

1. Open your Instagram Story.
2. Tap the three dots in the bottom right corner.
3. Select “Save”, and then choose either “Save Photo/Video” (to save the current slide) or “Save Story” (to save the entire story).

Saving Live Videos

Live videos are exciting and spontaneous! You have two options for saving them.

1. After your Live video ends, you’ll see the option to “Save” in the top right corner.
2. Tap “Save” to download the video to your phone. It only saves the video portion, not the comments, likes, or live viewers.

Alternatively, you can also archive your live videos.

1. Go to your Profile > Menu (three lines) > Settings > Privacy > Story.
2. Toggle on “Save Live to Archive”. This automatically saves all your Live videos to a private archive that only you can access. You can then download them from the archive later.

Saving Videos Posted by Others

This is where things get a little trickier, as respecting copyright and user privacy is paramount.

Using Screen Recording (Universal Method)

This is the most versatile and reliable method, applicable to virtually any video you encounter on Instagram.

1. Open the video you wish to save.
2. Activate your phone’s screen recording feature. (Most modern smartphones have this built-in. Look in your quick settings or control center).
3. Play the video from start to finish.
4. Stop the screen recording.
5. Crop the video in your phone’s gallery to remove any unnecessary screen elements (like the Instagram interface).

While effective, screen recording has a few drawbacks: potential quality loss and the possibility of capturing unwanted notifications during the recording. Also, always respect the content creator’s wishes. If they explicitly ask you not to share their content, refrain from doing so.

Utilizing Third-Party Apps and Websites (Use with Caution)

Numerous third-party apps and websites claim to download Instagram videos. However, proceed with extreme caution. Many of these are riddled with malware, intrusive ads, or violate Instagram’s terms of service.

If you choose to use a third-party app or website:

• Research the app/website thoroughly. Look for reviews and check its reputation.
• Avoid apps that request excessive permissions.
• Be wary of websites that ask for your Instagram login credentials. Never share your password with untrusted sources.
• Use a VPN for added security.

Disclaimer: We do not endorse or recommend any specific third-party apps or websites. Use them at your own risk.

Asking the Original Poster

The most ethical and straightforward approach is simply to ask the original poster if they can send you the video directly. Many creators are happy to share their content with those who appreciate it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about saving Instagram videos:

1. Is it legal to download videos from Instagram?

Generally, downloading videos from Instagram without the owner’s permission is a grey area. While not explicitly illegal in all jurisdictions, it violates Instagram’s terms of service and can infringe on copyright if you redistribute the content without permission. Always respect the content creator’s wishes.

2. Can I save videos from private Instagram accounts?

No. Unless you are explicitly granted access and permission by the account owner, you cannot save videos from private accounts. Attempting to do so violates their privacy.

3. Why does the downloaded Reel not have audio?

This usually happens when the Reel uses copyrighted music from Instagram’s music library. Instagram prevents unauthorized distribution of copyrighted material. Screen recording might be your only option to save Reels with music, but be mindful of copyright.

4. Are third-party Instagram downloader apps safe to use?

Not always. Many third-party apps are unreliable, contain malware, or compromise your privacy. Always research an app thoroughly before installing it. Prioritize your security.

5. Can I save Instagram videos on my computer?

Yes, the screen recording method works on computers as well. There are also browser extensions that claim to download Instagram videos, but again, exercise caution when using them.

6. How do I save an Instagram video sent to me in a direct message (DM)?

If you receive a video in a DM that you want to save, your options are limited. Screen recording is the most reliable method. You can also ask the sender to send you the video directly.

7. Can I save a video from a disappearing photo or video in a DM?

No. Disappearing photos and videos in DMs are designed to be viewed only once and cannot be saved. Instagram actively prevents users from taking screenshots or screen recordings of these types of messages, although some users may find ways around this. However, attempting to do so is a violation of privacy.

8. Will the video quality be reduced when I save it using screen recording?

Yes, screen recording can sometimes result in a slight reduction in video quality. This depends on your phone’s screen recording capabilities and the original video’s resolution.

9. Is there a limit to how many videos I can save from Instagram?

Instagram doesn’t impose a specific limit on the number of videos you can save. However, your phone’s storage capacity will be the limiting factor.

10. Can I download Instagram videos in bulk?

Some third-party apps or websites claim to offer bulk downloading, but these are generally risky and should be avoided due to potential security concerns.

11. What is the best way to avoid copyright infringement when saving Instagram videos?

Always ask for permission from the content creator before sharing or redistributing their videos. If you use a screen recording, give credit to the original creator.

12. Does Instagram notify users when someone screen records their video?

No. Instagram does not notify users when someone screen records their posts, Reels or videos. So, be considerate and respectful to content creator’s rights.

Conclusion

Saving videos from Instagram can be a bit of a maze, but with the right knowledge and a healthy dose of caution, you can navigate it successfully. Remember to prioritize ethical considerations and respect copyright when dealing with content that isn’t your own. Whether you’re preserving your own memories or admiring the work of others, these methods will help you keep those Instagram moments close at hand.