How to update Instagram on Android and iOS

Smartphone apps often update on their own unless you specifically turn off automatic updates. This can be good when you don’t want your apps updating on the go, which may use up your data. Whenever there’s a new update, though, you will need to update the app manually. Past updates to Instagram have added music to Stories, the ability to block and unblock people, and Reels. If you want to take advantage of new features right away, here’s how to update Instagram via the Google Play Store or iOS App Store.

When it comes time for you to update Instagram, it works the same as any other app or game that you have downloaded on your device. If you need to do it on your Android phone, you can alternatively use an APK. However, the easiest way on both operating systems is to go to the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and update the Instagram app from there.

Editor’s note: We used a Google Pixel 7 running Android 13 and an Apple iPhone 12 Mini running iOS 16.4.1 to formulate these instructions. Remember, some menus and steps may differ depending on your device and the software version it’s running.

How to update Instagram on Android

Updating your Instagram app on Android is pretty simple. Here’s how.

1. Launch the Google Play Store.
2. Tap on your profile icon, in the top-right corner.
3. Select Updates available.
4. You will see a list of apps with available updates. Check if Instagram is one of them.
5. If an update is available, tap on the Update button next to the app.
6. Alternatively, you can hit Update all to take care of all updates in one sweep.

How to update Instagram on iPhone

Oddly enough, updating the Instagram app on iOS is very similar.

1. Launch the Apple App Store.
2. Tap on your profile icon in the top-right corner.
3. You will see a list of apps with available updates if you scroll down a bit. Check if Instagram is included.
4. Tap Update next to Instagram.
5. You can also select Update All to take care of all updates.

How to turn off automatic updates on the Google Play Store

Automatic updates are the norm these days. This allows app developers to ensure the latest version of their application is being rolled out to as many devices as soon as possible. However, the option to disable automatic updates is always available for those who don’t necessarily want that.

1. Launch the Google Play Store.
2. Tap on your profile icon.
3. Go into Settings.
4. Expand the Network preferences section.
5. Tap on Auto-update apps.
6. Select Don’t auto-update apps.
7. Hit OK.

How to turn off automatic updates on the Apple App Store

Turning off automatic updates is also possible on iOS.

1. Launch the Settings app.
2. Go into App Store.
3. Under Automatic Downloads, toggle off App Updates.

FAQs