How to Download Instagram on an Apple iPad: A step-by-step guide, supported iPads and more

Downloading the Instagram app on an iPad is simple and takes just a few minutes using the App Store. This guide explains the requirements, exact steps, and quick fixes if the app doesn’t appear immediately due to a phased rollout.

Requirements

Ensure the iPad runs iPadOS 15.1 or later for the latest Instagram build to show and install properly. Older versions may not see the current listing or may show an update prompt that can’t be completed.

Sign in with an Apple ID on the iPad and confirm a stable internet connection to avoid installation interruptions.

Step-by-step installation

Open App Store on the iPad and tap the Search tab.

Type “Instagram” and select the official listing from Instagram/Meta in the results.

Tap Get or the cloud download icon, then authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or Apple ID password as prompted.

Wait for the download to finish, tap Open, and sign in to an existing account or create a new one.

Allow notifications and photo access when prompted to enable posting, messaging, and alerts.

If Instagram doesn’t appear in search

Refresh the Search tab or try again after a short while; regional rollouts can take time to propagate.

Verify compatibility: go to Settings > General > About to confirm iPadOS 15.1 or later. Update the device if needed via Settings > General > Software Update.

Temporary alternative: open Safari, visit instagram.com, sign in, then use Share > Add to Home Screen to create a web app icon for quick access.

Useful tips after install

Turn on automatic updates in Settings > App Store to receive new Instagram features without manual checks.

Manage permissions in Settings > Instagram to control camera, microphone, photos, and notifications based on preference.

If switching devices, enable two-factor authentication in Instagram’s security settings to protect the account during sign-in on the iPad.

That’s all it takes—search, download, authenticate, and start scrolling. This streamlined process works on any modern iPad, with the native layout designed to make browsing, Reels, Stories, and DMs more comfortable on the larger screen.