Can I Save Instagram Live Video or Download it Later?
As a viewer, it is not possible to directly download Instagram Live videos unless the host has shared them on Instagram after the live session. However, if you are the host of the live video, there are options available to save and download your live broadcasts. Instagram provides a feature called "Live Archive" where hosts can automatically save their live videos for up to 30 days. This feature needs to be enabled in your Instagram account settings. Additionally, hosts can also share their live videos on Instagram immediately after the broadcast ends, making them available for download.
Method 1: Download Instagram Live Video from Live Archive
Instagram's Live Archive feature allows hosts to access, save, share, and download their live videos after the broadcast is over. To ensure your live videos are saved in your archive, follow these steps:
- Launch Instagram on your smartphone and go to the Story tab in the menu.
- Tap the gear icon in the upper right corner and select Live.
- Make sure the slider next to Save Live to Archive is enabled.
- Now, all your live videos will be automatically saved to your archive for up to 30 days.
To retrieve a live video from your Instagram Live Archive:
- Open the Instagram app and go to your profile page by tapping the profile icon in the lower right corner.
- Tap the icon with the three bars (hamburger menu) in the upper right corner.
- From the menu, select Archive and navigate to the Live Archive section.
- Here, you will find all the live videos you have hosted in the last 29 days.
- Tap on a video to watch it or click the download icon to download it to your device.
Method 2: Use a Third-Party Website
If you prefer not to rely on Instagram's Live Archive feature, you can use third-party websites to download Instagram Live videos. One recommended website is Insload, which allows you to download videos without the need for additional software. To use Insload:
- Find the Instagram Live video you want to download and tap the three dots in the top right corner.
- Copy the link to the post.
- Visit the Insload website and paste the link into the designated field.
- Follow the instructions on the website to isolate and download the video to your device.
When using third-party websites, be cautious of pop-up ads disguised as download links. Insload provides a user-friendly experience and is a reliable option for downloading Instagram Live videos.
Method 3: Utilize Dedicated Apps
Dedicated apps can simplify the process of downloading Instagram Live videos to your phone. Here are four of the best apps available for this purpose:
- Repost: For Instagram: This app is popular for reposting Instagram content, but it can also be used to save and download videos directly to your device. The free version includes a watermark, but upgrading to the paid version allows you to remove it. Repost: For Instagram is available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reposter for Instagram: This lightweight app is exclusively available for iOS users. It allows you to download full-resolution Instagram videos without any watermarks. While the app is free, some users have reported occasional glitches and intrusive ads.
InsTake: Available for both iOS and Android, InsTake lets you download Instagram videos without upgrading to a paid version. However, you need to log into your Instagram account through the app before downloading, which may be an extra step for some users.
InstaGet: This simple and straightforward app is only available for Android users. It offers an easy-to-use interface and allows you to download Instagram videos without any hassle. While it lacks advanced features, it gets the job done efficiently.
Make sure to review the security policies and terms and conditions of any app before downloading it to your phone.
Method 4: Screen Record on Mobile or Desktop
Another option to save Instagram Live videos is to use the screen recording feature on your mobile device or desktop. This method allows you to capture the live video as it plays on your screen, but it may also record any distractions, such as live comments or notifications. Here's how you can screen record on different devices:
Mobile Phone Screen Recording
iPhone: On an iPhone, you can manually add the screen recording feature to your quick settings. Once added, swipe to your quick menu, tap record, and let the video play out. Remember to adjust your volume and enable "Do Not Disturb" mode to ensure a clean capture. After recording, you can trim and crop the video on your phone.
Android: The process of screen recording on Android devices varies depending on the brand and model. Typically, you can find the screen recording feature in the quick settings menu or by pressing the power button and volume down button simultaneously. Trim and edit the recorded video using a video editing app.
Desktop Screen Recording
Mac: Mac users can utilize QuickTime, a built-in screen recording tool. Open QuickTime, select "New Screen Recording" from the "File" menu, choose the desired screen or window to record, and start the recording. Trim and edit the video using editing software.
Windows: Windows users can use OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) to record their screens. OBS allows you to select specific areas of the screen to record, making it ideal for capturing Instagram Live videos without distractions. Trim and edit the video using video editing software.
Remember to respect the privacy and copyright of others when screen recording and sharing the recorded content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What types of Instagram videos can you download?
You can download various types of Instagram videos, including Instagram Reels, Instagram Videos, Instagram Stories, and even Instagram Live videos if you choose to screen record during the live broadcast.
Q2: How do you download Instagram videos on a computer?
To download Instagram videos on a computer, you can copy the URL of the Instagram post and use a video downloader website or browser extension to access and download the video. Alternatively, you can inspect the source code of the Instagram URL to find the MP4 source code and download it to your computer.
Q3: Is it illegal to download Instagram videos?
Downloading Instagram videos for personal use is generally not illegal. However, it becomes a gray area when it involves repurposing or altering the content without permission. Always credit the original Instagram account and make it clear that the content is not your own.
By following these proven methods, you can easily save and download your Instagram Live videos for future use. Whether you choose to utilize Instagram's Live Archive feature, third-party websites, dedicated apps, or screen recording, ensure that you respect the privacy and copyright of others. Happy downloading!