If you prefer to use Instagram on your PC, you are in the right place. This guide will help you effectively use the desktop version of Instagram and also give you the option to activate the mobile view for a seamless experience like on your phone.
Key Insights
- Instagram can be used on the PC via the desktop version or in a mobile-optimized view.
- Using the mobile view requires some additional steps through the browser's developer tools.
- Switching between views and basic feature usage is simple and intuitive.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Instagram on PC
Step 1: Sign in to Instagram
To use Instagram on PC, first visit the official Instagram website: instagram.com. Log in with your account there. After successful login, you should land directly on your feed, where you can see your activities, notifications, and your followers.
Step 2: Understand the Basic Layout
The layout of the desktop version differs slightly from the mobile version. On top, you can see likes, followers, and the Explore page. Expand the messages box to check your messages. The home feed displays all current posts and stories from your subscriptions.
Step 3: Access Your Profile
To edit your profile, click on your profile picture in the top right corner. There you have the option to edit your profile description and other settings. All functions are similar to the mobile app on this first glance.
Step 4: Switch to the Mobile View
If you prefer the layout of the mobile version, you can change it with a few clicks. Press the keys F12 (or FN + F12) on your keyboard to open the developer tools. Then look for the option "Toggle device Toolbar”. This function allows you to simulate various mobile device sizes.
Step 5: Selecting the Mobile Device
Once you have activated the "Toggle device Toolbar”, you can choose from a list of devices such as the iPhone X or the iPad. To adjust the view, select the iPhone, which is a good actual size for display on your screen.
Step 6: Refresh the Page
It is important to refresh the page after selecting a mobile device. Simply press F5 or click on the small refresh icon. This will reload the view according to your selection.
Step 7: Using the Mobile-Optimized View
Now Instagram appears in a version similar to the mobile app. You can use the home feed, the Explore page, and other features just like you are used to from your smartphone. Note that some features like uploading images may be only restrictedly accessible.
Step 8: Return to the Desktop Version
If you want to return to the original desktop version, reopen the developer tools with F12, go to "Toggle device Toolbar”, and close the window. After that, you should see the full desktop version of Instagram again.
Step 9: Restart Browser (if necessary)
If switching between views is not working or stuck, simply close the browser and reopen it. This will reset the settings and allow you to establish a new connection to Instagram.
Summary
To comfortably use Instagram on PC, you can directly use basic functions in the desktop version or switch to the mobile-optimized view. The steps are easy and make using Instagram even more flexible. Use this guide to make the most out of your Instagram experience on PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I navigate to my profile?Click on your profile picture in the top right corner to access your profile.
Can I activate the mobile view at any time?Yes, you can activate the mobile view at any time through the developer tools.
How do I upload pictures via the PC?While uploading pictures works in the desktop version, it may be limited.
What should I do if the mobile view is not working correctly?Close the browser and restart it to reset the settings.
How can I switch back to the desktop version?Open the developer tools, deactivate the "Toggle device Toolbar", and close the window.
