How to download Instagram highlights from a private account?

May 10, 2025 - 04:01

GramSnap Downloader

Today's GramSnap Downloader has become more than just a social media platform—it’s a hub of memories, moments, and meaningful content. One of its most engaging features is Instagram Highlights, which allows users to save and showcase their Stories permanently on their profiles.

Whether it’s to keep cherished moments from a friend’s private account or to study content as a GramSnap Downloader strategist, this guide will walk you through how to download Instagram highlights of private accounts—ethically, safely, and effectively.

Understanding Instagram Highlights and Privacy

Before diving into the how-to, it’s essential to understand what Instagram Highlights are and how privacy settings affect access.

Feature	Public Accounts	Private Accounts
Highlights Visibility	Visible to everyone	Only visible to approved followers
Downloading Option	Possible with various tools	Restricted unless you're an approved follower
Legal Considerations	Often in gray areas if not your own content	Risk of violating privacy policies

You Download Highlights from Private Accounts

Instagram’s private account feature is designed to restrict access to a user’s content, including Stories and Highlights. This means that third-party apps and public downloading tools cannot access private content. If you're not on the follower list, there is no legal or ethical way to download those Highlights.

However, if you are a follower, then there are a few effective techniques you can use to save Highlights for personal reference.

How to Download Instagram Highlights of a Private Account

Here are the 4 most effective and ethical methods for downloading Instagram Highlights when you are a follower of a private account.

Manual Screen Recording (Most Secure Method)

If you have access to the content, the simplest and safest method is to use your device's screen recording feature.

Make sure you’re an approved follower.

Open the Instagram app.

Navigate to the user's profile and view the Highlight.

Turn on your device’s screen recorder.

Play the highlight and record.

Trim/edit the video afterward if necessary.

Pro Tip from AskFormulator Always ask permission if you intend to use or share the content elsewhere. Respect for privacy goes hand-in-hand with ethical digital behavior.

Use a Mobile App (For Approved Followers)

Some mobile apps available for Android and iOS allow you to download Stories and Highlights if you’re already following the private account.

Popular Options

StorySaver+ (Android)

ReShare Story for Instagram (iOS)

InSaver (iOS)

These apps may require you to log in. Always check reviews and ensure the app is secure before logging in with your credentials.

Ask the Account Owner to Share

This might seem old-school, but if you're looking to keep something meaningful, the most ethical and personal approach is to just ask the user to send the highlight video or images directly.

Advantages

100% ethical

Maintains trust

Avoids privacy violations

You can frame it as:

“Hey, I really loved that story you saved in your highlights. Would you mind sharing it with me? I’d love to keep it.”

Browser Tools (Advanced Users Only)

If you're accessing Instagram on a desktop and you are already an approved follower, you can use browser developer tools to find and download highlight media. This is a technical method and not recommended for beginners.

Open the user's profile.

Start playing the Highlight.

Right-click > Inspect Element.

Copy and paste the link into a new tab to download.

While the web is full of tools that claim to download content from private Instagram accounts, many are:

Scams or phishing attempts

Malware-infected websites

Violation of Instagram’s Terms of Service

If a tool asks you to enter someone else's username and promises access to their private highlights without being a follower—stay away. These tools often exist to exploit user data and trick unsuspecting users.

Quote to Remember

“Privacy is not an option, and it shouldn’t be the price we accept for just getting on the Internet.”
— Gary Kovacs

Always keep privacy and consent in mind, especially when dealing with private social media content.

FAQ

Can I download private highlights without following the user?

This would be a breach of privacy. Instagram’s system is designed to protect such content from non-followers.

Is it legal to download someone else's Instagram content?

As long as you are a follower and the content is for personal use, it’s generally acceptable. Reposting or redistributing without permission, however, may violate copyright laws or Instagram policies.

Will the user know I downloaded their highlights?

Instagram does not notify users when you screen record or download highlights.

Conclusion

Downloading Instagram Highlights from a private account is possible—but only under the right conditions. The key is to be an approved follower and to always act ethically. Whether you use a screen recorder, a safe app, or simply ask the user, make sure your methods align with respect for privacy.

At AskFormulator, we believe in empowering users with knowledge while encouraging responsible digital behavior. Always think before you click, and treat others' content the way you’d want yours treated.