Instagram Video Calls in 2025: A Complete Guide to Starting and Managing Them

Instagram isn’t just for likes, comments, and scrolling; it’s a platform to truly connect with friends, family, and colleagues. One of its standout features is video calling, which lets you instantly reach someone, whether you’re on Android, iPhone, or even a PC. You can make one-on-one calls or create group video chats, making conversations more engaging and interactive.

Instagram video calls come with fun and useful tools, including filters, screen sharing, and secure messaging, ensuring your chats are both entertaining and private. In this guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of starting and managing video calls on Instagram, offering clear, step-by-step instructions so you can use the feature with confidence.

Start and Manage Video Calls on Instagram Mobile

Instagram’s video calling is fully integrated into the app—no extra downloads or software needed. With just a few taps, you can start a face-to-face conversation with anyone, wherever you are. Whether it’s a quick one-on-one chat or a group call with friends, Instagram makes connecting easy and instant. In this section, we’ll show you how to start, manage, and optimize video calls directly from your mobile device, so you never miss a moment.

How to Start a Video Call on Instagram

Open the Instagram app on your mobile device.
Tap the paper airplane icon in the top-right corner to open Direct Messages (DMs).
Select the person or group you want to call.
Tap the video camera icon at the top of the screen.
Alternatively, swipe right from your feed to start a call.
The person will get a notification and can accept or reject your call.
You can even call someone who doesn’t follow you, as long as they’re in a group chat with you.

How to Add People to a Video Call

You can add up to 6 people total.
Tap “Add” to invite more friends to join.
Instagram will notify them to join the ongoing call.
To remove someone, tap the “X” next to their name.

Video Calling with Facebook Friends

You can call Facebook friends directly from Instagram.
They don’t need an Instagram account.
Look under the “Suggested” section to find them.
Tap their name to start the call instantly.

What Happens During a Call

Tap the smiley face icon to add fun filters and effects.
You’ll see both your video and the other person’s video.
Switch between front and back cameras anytime.
Mute your microphone using the microphone icon.
Tap the red phone icon to end the call.

How to Use Filters and Effects

Start your video call from an Instagram chat.
Tap the effects icon at the bottom of the screen.
Browse and select from filters, masks, and other fun effects.
Tap an effect again to explore additional options.
You can save or share your favorite effects with friends.
Works seamlessly on both Android and iPhone devices.

How to Share Your Screen During a Call

While on the call, tap the bottom of the screen to open the menu.
Select the “Share Screen” icon.
Tap “Start Now” to begin sharing your screen.
Your friends can now see your mobile screen in real time.
Tap “Stop Sharing” when finished—your video call will continue normally.

Multitask While on the Call

You can continue using Instagram while staying on the video call.
Minimize the call window using the top-left icon.
Browse your feed, check DMs, or explore content.
Friends will only see your face in the smaller call window, not your screen.

Take Photos During the Call (iPhone Only)

Friends will be notified whenever you take a photo.
Tap the round circle icon during the call.
Capture a snapshot of the moment.
Share it in your story or DMs.

Start and Manage Video Calls on Instagram PC

Instagram also supports video calling directly from your computer. Whether you’re using a desktop or a laptop, you can connect with friends and family without needing your phone. There are several easy ways to start and manage video calls on Instagram’s web interface, making it convenient for work, study, or casual chats.

Method 1: Instagram App for Windows

Download Instagram from the Microsoft Store.
Install and launch the app on your computer.
Log in with your Instagram account.
Click the DM icon at the top-right corner.
Select an existing chat or start a new conversation.
Click the video call icon to begin the call.
Note: The person you call must open their app manually to receive the call.

Method 2: Instagram Web Browser

Open your browser and go to Instagram.com
.
Log in with your username and password.
Click the paper plane (DM) icon at the top.
Select a chat or search for a username.
Click the video or phone icon to start the call.
Note: Video calls aren’t always fully supported on the web version.

Method 3: BlueStacks Android Emulator

Download BlueStacks from the official website.
Install it and search for Instagram in the search bar.
Install and open Instagram inside BlueStacks.
Log in to your account.
Tap the DM icon and start a video call.
Works for both Windows and Mac.

Method 4: NoxPlayer Android Emulator

Download NoxPlayer from its official website.
Install it and search for Instagram.
Open Instagram and log in.
Click the DM icon to open a chat.
Press the video icon to start the call.
Note: NoxPlayer uses less memory and runs smoothly on most PCs.

Advanced Controls to Start and Manage Video Calls on Instagram

Instagram provides a range of advanced controls to make video calling easier and more secure. You can manage group calls by adding or removing participants, ensuring only the right people are in the conversation. Notifications can be customized so you’re not disturbed by unwanted calls. You can also block or restrict call requests from specific users for added privacy.

Additionally, certain tools allow you to record calls or save important moments (depending on device permissions and privacy settings). These controls give you full flexibility, helping you stay in charge of your video calls while keeping them safe and organized.

Create Large Group Calls (Up to 50 People)

Open Instagram and tap the Messenger icon.
Tap “Rooms” and select “Create Room”.
Your Facebook profile name will appear when tapping “Create Room as [your name]”.
Share the link with friends on Instagram or Facebook, or send it via email or messaging apps.
Tap “Join Room” to enter your Messenger Room.
Note: People without accounts can join through the shared link.

Stop Receiving Video Call Requests

Open your Instagram profile page.
Tap the three-line menu at the top-right corner.
Go to Settings > Privacy > Messages.
Tap “Facebook Friends” or “Messenger Contacts”.
Select “Don’t Receive Requests” to block calls from them.

Turn Off Video Call Notifications

Tap the three-line menu on your profile.
Go to Settings > Notifications > Direct Messages.
Scroll to the Video Call section.
Choose “Off” or customize your alert preferences.

Enable Camera and Microphone Access

If your camera or mic doesn’t work:

Go to Settings > Apps > Instagram.
Ensure Camera and Microphone permissions are enabled.
Restart the Instagram app and try calling again.

Record Instagram Video Calls

Since Instagram doesn’t allow recording by default, use your device’s screen recorder:

For iPhone Users:

Go to Settings > Control Center > Customize Controls.
Add Screen Recording to your menu.
Start your video call, swipe up, and tap the record icon.
Swipe again to stop and save the video.

For Android Users:

Record your call, then tap Stop to save it.
Start your call in Instagram.
Swipe down and tap the Screen Recorder option.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Instagram video calls with people who don’t follow me?

Yes. You can call someone who isn’t following you if they are part of a group chat with you or if you share a Messenger Room link.

How many people can join an Instagram video call?

You can have up to 50 participants in a Messenger Room and up to 6 participants in regular Instagram video calls.

Can I use filters and effects during video calls?

Yes. Instagram allows you to use filters, masks, and fun effects during calls on both Android and iPhone.

Can I share my screen during a call?

Yes. Tap the Share Screen icon during the call to show your mobile screen to others.

Can I record Instagram video calls?

Instagram doesn’t allow built-in recording. You can use screen recording on an iPhone or Android to save calls.

Can I block or stop unwanted calls?

Yes. Go to Settings > Privacy > Messages to block call requests from certain users. You can also turn off notifications for video calls.

Can I make video calls from my PC?

Yes. You can use the Instagram Windows app, web browser, or Android emulators like BlueStacks or NoxPlayer to make calls on PC.

Conclusion

Instagram makes it easy to start and manage video calls—whether it’s one-on-one or a large group. Take advantage of features like screen sharing, filters, multitasking, and recording using built-in screen recorders. Manage who can contact you through privacy settings, and connect via mobile, PC, or emulators. With these tips, you can enjoy safe, smooth, and fun video calls on Instagram anytime.