Instagram Live has become an incredibly popular feature for sharing real-time moments with followers. However, there are instances when we accidentally delete an Instagram Live video, losing precious content that cannot be recreated. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to recover and download a deleted Instagram Live.
Understanding the Instagram Live Feature
Before diving into the recovery process, it is essential to understand what an Instagram Live is and how it works. Instagram Live allows users to broadcast live video to their followers in real-time, creating an interactive experience where viewers can like, comment, and interact with the broadcaster. The Live video is typically available to view for 24 hours after the broadcast ends, and during this time, the user can choose to delete the video if they wish.
Recovering a Deleted Instagram Live
Accidentally deleting an Instagram Live video can be frustrating, but there is still a chance to recover it. Instagram offers a feature to recover recently deleted content, including Live videos, for a limited time. Follow these steps to attempt recovery:
- Open the Instagram App: Launch the Instagram app on your mobile device and log in to your account.
- Go to your Profile: Tap on your profile picture in the bottom right corner to access your profile.
- Access Recently Deleted: On your profile, click on the three horizontal lines (menu) in the top right corner. From the menu options, select “Settings,” then “Account,” and finally, “Recently Deleted.”
- Locate the Deleted Live Video: In the “Recently Deleted” folder, you should find the deleted Instagram Live video, along with other deleted posts. Note that Instagram retains deleted content for up to 30 days before permanently removing it.
- Recover the Live Video: Select the deleted Instagram Live video you wish to recover. Tap on “Restore” to bring the Live video back to your profile, and it will be made available to your followers again.
Downloading a Recovered Instagram Live
Once you have successfully recovered the deleted Instagram Live video, it is essential to download it for safekeeping or sharing it on other platforms. Unfortunately, Instagram does not provide a built-in download option for Live videos, but there are alternative methods you can use:
- Screen Recording: One of the simplest ways to download a recovered Instagram Live is by using the screen recording feature on your mobile device. For iOS users, use the built-in screen recording option by swiping up from the control center and tapping the record button. For Android users, you can download various screen recording apps from the Play Store. Initiate the screen recording and play the recovered Live video to save it as a video file on your device.
- Third-Party Applications: Several third-party apps and websites offer the ability to download Instagram Live videos. Be cautious while using these methods, as some apps might violate Instagram’s terms of service or compromise your account’s security. Look for reputable apps with positive reviews to minimize any risks.
Tips to Avoid Accidental Deletion
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some helpful tips to avoid accidentally deleting your Instagram Live videos in the future:
- Double-check Before Deleting: When you decide to delete a Live video, Instagram will prompt you to confirm the action. Take an extra moment to verify if you want to delete the video or not.
- Utilize Highlights: Instagram allows users to add their Live videos to Highlights, which are collections of stories featured on your profile. By saving your Live videos to Highlights, you create a backup and make them easily accessible to your followers even after the 24-hour expiration period.
- Save Locally: Before ending your Live video, save it directly to your device’s gallery. This way, even if it is accidentally deleted from your Instagram account, you still have a local copy.
Conclusion
Accidentally deleting an Instagram Live video can be disheartening, especially if it contained precious moments and interactions with your followers. However, with Instagram’s “Recently Deleted” feature, there is hope for recovery within a 30-day timeframe. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of recovering and preserving your deleted Instagram Live videos. Additionally, remember to take preventive measures like saving Live videos to Highlights or locally on your device to avoid future mishaps. With a little caution and knowledge, you can make the most out of Instagram Live and ensure your content remains intact for your followers to enjoy.