Instagram media API for downloader apps and bots
Give your users a paste-a-link experience without maintaining your own fetching infrastructure. Resolve a URL to every quality, then hand over a download link that works in a browser.
How it fits together
Resolve
Turn the pasted URL into JSON with author, caption and every video quality.
Choose
Show your users the `formats` list so they can pick 1080p, 720p or audio only.
Prepare
Send the chosen URL (and audio stream) to get a stable download link.
Deliver
Redirect the user to the link or fetch the file server-side.
Why a separate download step
Instagram's media links expire and browsers often cannot download them directly because of cross-origin rules. The Downloader API fetches the file for you, merges separate video and audio streams when a quality needs it, and returns a link to the stored copy that expires after about an hour.
Be a good citizen
Downloaders involve other people's content. Show the creator's name, link back to the original post and make it clear that users may only save content they have rights to. Remove content when a rights holder asks. See the acceptable use policy.
APIs used
- Instagram Post & Reel Data API: Turn any public Instagram post, reel or carousel URL into JSON: author, caption, counts, every video quality and slide. 1 credit per call.
- Instagram Downloader API: Turn Instagram CDN links into stable download links: reels, HD merged video, MP3 audio and photos. Files are stored for you. From 1 credit.
- Instagram Reels API: List the latest reels of any public Instagram profile with captions, durations, engagement and video links. Paginated JSON, 1 credit per page.
- Instagram Audio API: Get Instagram audio track details: title, artist, cover art, usage count, sample reels and a direct audio link. 1 credit per call.
Questions
Can my users download in HD with sound?
Yes. When a quality lists an `audio_url`, send both URLs to the Downloader API and receive one merged MP4.
How much does a download cost?
Resolving a post is 1 credit. Preparing a plain video is 2 credits, a merged HD video 5, an MP3 1, and an image 1.
Do you host the files permanently?
No. Files are available through a time-limited link. Store the file on your side if you need it longer.
Guides for this use case
Get your free API key
100 credits every month, no credit card. Make your first request in about two minutes.