Upload videos to Instagram Story from a PC or Mac, you can utilize browser developer tools to mimic a mobile device, enabling you to access the mobile version of Instagram. Alternatively, third-party apps like Flume or BlueStacks allow you to upload content directly from your computer. These methods bypass Instagram’s limitations on desktop uploads, providing you with a convenient way to share videos to your Story without needing to use a mobile device. Choose the method that best suits your preferences and workflow for seamless sharing.
Introduction to Upload Videos to Instagram
Instagram stands as one of the most popular platforms for sharing photos and videos. Among its many features, Instagram Stories allows users to share ephemeral content that disappears after 24 hours. While the Instagram app primarily targets mobile users, many individuals prefer creating and editing content on their computers. Unfortunately, Instagram’s native functionality doesn’t offer a straightforward way to upload videos to Stories from a PC or Mac. However, with the help of browser developer tools or third-party apps, users can bypass this limitation and share their videos seamlessly. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the methods and tools available for uploading videos to Instagram Stories from a desktop computer.

Instagram Stories
Instagram Stories have become an integral part of the platform, allowing users to share moments from their day more casually and spontaneously. Stories can include photos, videos, text, stickers, and various interactive elements. Once posted, Stories remain visible to followers for 24 hours before disappearing. This ephemeral nature encourages frequent updates and engagement among users.
Challenges of Uploading Videos from PC/Mac
While Instagram provides robust features for mobile users, uploading videos to Stories from a PC or Mac presents several challenges. Unlike the mobile app, the desktop version of Instagram lacks the option to directly upload content to Stories. This limitation stems from Instagram’s focus on mobile-first experiences and its reluctance to support full functionality on desktop browsers. Consequently, users often resort to alternative methods to accomplish desktop uploads, such as using browser developer tools or third-party apps.

Using Browser Developer Tools
Browser developer tools allow users to simulate a mobile device within their desktop browser, enabling access to the mobile version of Instagram. This method involves changing the user agent to emulate a mobile device, tricking Instagram into believing that the content is being accessed from a smartphone or tablet. By accessing the mobile version of Instagram, users gain the ability to upload videos to Stories directly from their desktop computers.
Using Third-Party Apps
Another approach to uploading videos to Instagram Stories from a desktop computer involves using third-party apps specifically designed for this purpose. These apps provide an interface that mimics the mobile Instagram experience, allowing users to upload content directly from their PCs or Macs. While there are several third-party apps available, two popular options are Flume and BlueStacks.

How to Post a Story on Instagram from a PC
Here’s how to post a story on Instagram from your PC:
- Log in to your Instagram account using Google Chrome.
- Press CTRL + Shift + J to open Chrome’s Developer Tools.
- Click on the icon resembling a tablet and phone at the top to toggle the device toolbar.
- Refresh the Instagram page, then click “Your Story” to add a new one.
How to Post a Story on Instagram From Mac
To post an Instagram Story from a Mac:
Open Safari and press Command + Option + J to access the Developer Tools.
In Developer Tools, go to Safari Preferences > Advanced, and check “Show Develop menu in Menu Bar.”
Click Develop > User Agent, and select “Safari iOS – 11.3 – iPhone.”
Log in to your Instagram account on Safari and click the “+” sign to create a new story.
Upload your photo or video, add any desired effects or text, and then click “Your Story” to post it. This workaround emulates Instagram’s mobile interface, allowing you to share stories from your Mac.

How to Post on Instagram from Mac
Follow the steps mentioned below to post on Instagram from Mac:
- Use Safari and access Instagram.com.
- Press Command + Option + R to reload the page and activate the mobile interface.
- Click the “+” icon to upload a photo or video.
- Apply filters, add a caption, and tag users if desired.
- Press Tab to navigate through fields, and hit Enter to post.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I upload videos to Instagram Story directly from my PC or Mac?
Instagram’s web interface does not support direct uploading of stories from desktop browsers. This limitation is due to Instagram’s focus on mobile-first experiences.
What are Browser Developer Tools?
Browser Developer Tools are features built into web browsers that allow developers to inspect and debug web pages. By using Developer Tools to mimic a mobile device, users can access Instagram’s mobile interface on their desktop browsers.
How do Browser Developer Tools enable uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac?
By emulating a mobile device, Browser Developer Tools trick Instagram into displaying its mobile interface on a desktop browser. This allows users to access story upload functionality that is otherwise unavailable on the desktop version of Instagram.
What are Third-Party Apps for uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac?
Third-party apps like Flume or BlueStacks provide alternative methods for uploading content to Instagram from desktop computers. These apps offer interfaces that mimic the mobile Instagram experience, enabling users to upload videos to their stories.
Are there any risks associated with using Browser Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps?
While using Browser Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps to upload videos to Instagram Story from a PC/Mac is generally safe, users should exercise caution and ensure they are using reputable tools or apps from trusted sources. Additionally, users should be mindful of Instagram’s terms of service and community guidelines to avoid any violations.
Which method is recommended for uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac?
The method you choose depends on your preferences and technical proficiency. Browser Developer Tools offer a simple and free solution but may require some familiarity with web development concepts. Third-party apps like Flume or BlueStacks provide a more user-friendly experience but may come with associated costs or limitations.
Can I schedule Instagram Stories from PC/Mac using these methods?
While Browser Developer Tools and some Third-Party Apps allow you to upload content to Instagram Story from PC/Mac, scheduling stories for future posting is not directly supported. Users interested in scheduling Instagram Stories may need to explore dedicated social media management tools that offer this functionality.
Is it possible to upload high-quality videos to Instagram Story from a PC/Mac?
Instagram’s mobile app typically compresses videos to optimize file size and loading times. When uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac using Browser Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps, the quality of the uploaded videos may be affected by Instagram’s compression algorithms. However, users can still achieve satisfactory results by ensuring their videos meet Instagram’s recommended specifications for resolution and format.
Can I upload multiple videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac simultaneously?
While Instagram’s native app on mobile devices allows users to select and upload multiple videos to their stories at once, the methods available for uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac may not support bulk uploading. Users may need to upload videos individually using these methods.
Are there any alternatives to Browser Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps for uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac?
While Browser Developer Tools and Third-Party Apps are the most commonly used methods for uploading videos to Instagram Story from PC/Mac, some users may explore other workarounds or creative solutions. These could include using screen recording software to capture and upload videos or utilizing cloud storage services to transfer videos from a desktop computer to a mobile device for posting on Instagram. However, these alternatives may be less convenient or efficient compared to Browser Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps.
Conclusion
Instagram’s native interface doesn’t support direct uploading of videos to Stories from PCs or Macs, users can leverage Browser Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps to bypass this limitation. Browser Developer Tools allow users to emulate a mobile device, accessing Instagram’s mobile interface on desktop browsers. Alternatively, Third-Party Apps like Flume or BlueStacks offer dedicated solutions for posting content from computers. Whether opting for Developer Tools or Third-Party Apps, users should exercise caution and adhere to Instagram’s guidelines. With these workarounds, users can seamlessly share videos to their Instagram Stories from their PCs or Macs, expanding their content creation capabilities.