With well over 1 billion users, there’s a huge audience for people to tap into, especially when you consider the likes of Stories and IGTV in addition to regular posting. Instagram is still overwhelmingly mobile-focused, although most of its key features have now made their way onto the desktop website. The most glaring exception is the ability to post directly from your PC or laptop. However, there is a workaround on Windows, with the help of some third-party software. See also: How to take better photos with your iPhone
How to use Instagram on Windows: The web interface
Visiting the Instagram website and logging into your account (or creating one) gives you access to the web version of the app. While you might expect this to allow you the same abilities as the mobile version, one very important feature is missing – you can’t upload any images.
When you’re logged in, the main page will show your photo feed just as it would on the app itself. Along the top of the page you’ll also see three icons in the upper right corner. These are for Explore (finding new people to follow), Notifications (who liked your images), and Profile (all the images you’ve uploaded). Using these you can still enjoy the various images that have been shared, but there is no way to edit or add to your collections. You can also now download a dedicated Instagram Windows app from the Windows Store, but you still won’t be able to upload any images without a touchscreen Windows laptop or tablet. Read on for a workaround. Read next: How to print from your phone
How to upload photos to Instagram from a PC: Vivaldi
There are a number of third party apps that extend Instagram’s features on Windows. Our top pick used to be InstaPic, but that app has now been discontinued. The only other alternative is App for Instagram, although it costs US$9.99 per month for the ability to upload pictures. We wouldn’t recommend paying for a feature that’s already free on the mobile app. Therefore, we’d recommend using Vivaldi, an ultra-customisable browser that allows you to simulate the mobile app on your PC. Just head to the Vivaldi website to get started. Once installed, complete the setup process (you can skip if you wish) and then follow these instructions: That’s it! Instagram photo uploading on PC without too much hassle. While you’re here, check out how to upload video to Instagram from PC. Martyn has been involved with tech ever since the arrival of his ZX Spectrum back in the early 80s. He covers iOS, Android, Windows and macOS, writing tutorials, buying guides and reviews for Macworld and its sister site Tech Advisor.
