You can now upload images to Instagram via your browser. That means no more transferring photos to your phone just to upload via the app. But, there is a catch…

Mobile browser only

Dedicated to mobile, Instagram has heretofore not allowed image uploads through the website. Instead, uploads had to go via mobile app.

Premium tablet users bemoaned the lack of an apt app for their big screens. As a quick fix, Instagram allows image uploads from the mobile version of its website.

Mobile on desktop

But, browser-based uploads are only allowed via the mobile version of the Instagram website. Desktop versions are still meant for viewing-only.

But, there is a way…

Device mode (thank Chrome)

To upload from a desktop, you’ve got to get Instagram to treat your computer like a mobile device. Using Chrome, this is pretty easy:

1      Open Chrome—if you haven’t got it, get it quick.

2      Navigate to Instagram—ensure you’re logged in.

3      Press Ctrl+Shift+I—this opens the ‘Chrome developer’ window.

4      Press Ctrl+Shift+M—this switches you to the mobile version of the site. It will look different and give you the mobile site exclusives.

5      Tap the camera icon—this opens a file explorer window. Select and upload your image.

When you’re done, press Ctrl+Shift+I again to close the developer window and disable device mode.

Anti-Chrome?

It is technically possible to do something similar with any browser, though probably not as easily. You’ll either need more advanced technical know-how to manually change the user agent setting, or you might be able to download a browser add-on to do it for you.

Posting to Instagram from desktop has the potential to improve social workflows. What other changes would you like to see to make professional social media practices more manageable?

Copy Transmission is a Melbourne-based agency :: Better Brands. Loud & Clear.