Overview of Instagram’s Changes
Most of the functionality of the major third-party consumer apps that really do have APIs to access the Instagram platform has been stripped away by the changes that Instagram made to its developer tools on December 4, 2024. Such a decision indeed has generated a lot of concern from both the developers and their consumer base.
The Apps Affected by this Change
Almost all the important apps that previously relied on the now-defunct Instagram Basic Display API are:
| Application | Previous Functionality | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Match-owned dating apps | Enabled users to link Instagram profiles to display posts for potential matches | Loss of integration; affected user experience |
| Day One | Allowed users to import Instagram photos and posts into journals | Functionality eliminated; users can access existing entries but can’t import new content |
Background of the API Change
In the fall of this year, Meta officially declared that it would be shutting down the access channel to the Instagram Basic Display API citing issues regarding proper data access management. This API was greatly significant to most third-party developers, allowing users access to most of their content on Instagram.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Fall 2024 | Announcement of the upcoming API shutdown |
| December 4, 2024 | Actual shutdown of the Instagram Basic Display API |
Developer Response
Disappointment from a lot of developers. Day One has said the following:
- A Pembroke Journaling Commitment: “We know this news is disappointing; the Instagram integration was a way of bringing memories into your journal.”
- Most of All: The integration was offered as a major selling point for Day One’s Premium version.
Alternatives and Recommendations
These modifications encourage developers to shift to the new Instagram APIs, but these can only be accessed through business accounts, thus limiting their accessibility to most third-party applications.
| Alternative API | Compatibility | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Instagram APIs | Business accounts only | Lack functionality required for personal account integrations |
Conclusion
A widdle too many third-party apps were inundated by the removal of the Instagram Basic Display API. Either one or the other issued posts that basically said their apps could now do nothing with Instagram. And now the users shall have to deal with limitations and altered ways of interacting with Instagram content via these apps while developers work with the new system. The users are encouraged to remain alert to all changes so that they do not miss any updates or alternative solutions.
