If Instagram won’t open, keeps crashing, or freezes on your iPhone XR, you’re definitely not alone. Whether you’re scrolling your feed or trying to upload a story, a glitchy Instagram app can be super frustrating. Don’t worry—this guide walks you through every fix you can try to get it back up and running.
1. Make Sure Your Internet Connection Is Stable
Instagram needs a solid internet connection to function properly.
- Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, toggle it off and on.
- Try switching between Wi-Fi and cellular data.
- Open Safari or another app to check if your connection is working.
If your connection is weak or dropping, Instagram may not load or function properly.
2. Force Close Instagram and Reopen It
If Instagram suddenly starts acting weird, force-quitting the app can refresh it.
- Swipe up from the bottom of the screen and pause in the middle.
- Swipe left or right to find Instagram.
- Swipe up on it to close.
- Reopen the app and try again.
Also consider closing other background apps to avoid potential conflicts.
3. Restart Your iPhone XR
A simple restart can fix a lot of app-related issues.
- Press and hold the Side button + Volume Up or Down until the power slider appears.
- Slide to power off.
- After 30 seconds, hold the Side button again to turn it back on.
This clears temporary files and resets minor glitches.
4. Update the Instagram App
Outdated app versions are often buggy.
- Open the App Store.
- Tap your profile icon in the top-right.
- Scroll down to Instagram and tap Update if it’s available.
Restart the app after updating to make sure changes take effect.
5. Delete and Reinstall Instagram
If the app is corrupted, reinstalling it may solve the problem.
Option 1 – Home Screen Method:
- Long press the Instagram app icon.
- Tap Remove App > Delete App, then confirm.
- Go to the App Store, search for Instagram, and reinstall it.
Option 2 – Settings Method:
- Go to Settings > General > iPhone Storage.
- Find and tap Instagram.
- Tap Delete App, then reinstall it via the App Store.
6. Reset All Settings
If the issue is system-related (not the app), resetting all settings might help.
- Go to Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset.
- Tap Reset All Settings.
- Enter your passcode and confirm.
This won’t delete your data but will reset Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and system preferences.
7. Check for Server Outages
Sometimes the issue is with Instagram’s servers, not your phone.
- Visit Downdetector to check for current outages.
- Try logging in from another device to see if the issue persists there too.
If it’s down for everyone, you’ll have to wait until Instagram fixes it.
8. Contact Instagram Support
Still having issues?
- Open the Instagram app (if it loads at all).
- Go to Settings > Help > Report a Problem.
You can also visit Instagram’s Help Center for more support options.