Experiencing issues with your Instagram Story not uploading can be quite frustrating, as it can set back your content strategy, affecting your overall brand goals. However, while no one ever wants to deal with a situation like this, it happens more often than you realize.
Whether it’s due to a technical glitch or an error while uploading, there’s always a way around it. By understanding the common reasons why this issue is happening, including how to tackle them, you can save some time and prevent further frustration. This article will guide you on all you need to know about your Instagram story not uploading.
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Instagram Story Not Uploading: Causes and Fixes
Here are some key reasons why you can’t upload stories and how to fix them:
1. Bad Internet Connection
One of the most common reasons that may lead to a failed story upload is a weak or unstable internet connection. If your network has a bad reception, you might be met with an error message like “Upload failed”.
Solution
To fix this, try switching to a different network that is faster or preferably, use Wi-Fi, which tends to have a more stable connection. You can also change data settings and check if you’re using Data Saver mode. Disable this setting temporarily until you’re able to upload your media successfully.
2. Unsupported File Formats
File formats like MKV and AVI are incompatible with Instagram and might result in issues while uploading media, whether videos or GIFs. Unless you have your video saved in supported formats, you won’t be able to upload.
Solution
Change the format to MP4 or MOV before uploading your video, and once it’s successfully converted, you should be able to upload. Additionally, you can remove GIFs if they are causing issues or consider reducing the video length. Then, add music and links to your story for a seamless audio integration so you can mute the audio from the original video.
3. Violation of Instagram Terms
If your content violates Instagram’s community guidelines, you won’t be allowed to upload it. Instagram strictly monitors content that goes up on its platform and will remove anything that doesn’t align with its goals. Anything against the policy can lead to restrictions or even get you banned.
Solution
Review your content thoroughly before uploading to ensure you comply with Instagram’s terms and adjust accordingly. Avoid hateful, discriminatory, or nudity content, among other things. If you receive any email warnings or notifications, go through them carefully to determine the next steps to take and try again.
4. Due to Server Error
Your Instagram Story may not upload due to server issues on Instagram’s end, such as overloaded traffic, a bug, or technical glitches. In such situations, some normal app functions, including the story upload, may not work anymore.
Solution
Check the server status online if you notice any difficult technicalities and suspect the server is down. Chances are that some other people online are experiencing the same and you might just need to wait a while for Instagram to resolve it themselves. Being patient can save you from unnecessary troubleshooting when the problem is on Instagram’s end.
5. Outdated Instagram App
The Instagram app needs to function at its maximum capacity constantly. If it’s down and not functioning correctly, it might prevent your story from uploading or restrict you from doing other simple tasks on the app. Issues could include bugs, outdated versions, or even log-in errors.
Solution
Start by confirming that your app has the latest updated version, as this helps fix some bugs. You can also log out and log back in, uninstall, or force stop the app through your settings. This helps you start afresh and restore normal functionality, so you can easily upload your story.
6. Cache Issues
Outdated or misconfigured caches can sometimes pose issues with Instagram story uploads. When cache data is accumulated, it can slow down the app and prevent you from carrying out certain actions. Some devices clear the cache automatically, but this might not be the case for you.
Solution
If you notice your app slowing down, it might be a sign to clear your device’s cache. Long-press on the Instagram app icon and tap on App info to clear cache or go to your phone’s settings >> Apps >> Instagram App >> Clear cache. This works on Android, but if you use an iOS device, you can offload the App instead.
7. Not Updating Your Mobile Device
App updates are necessary for improvements and making your experience on the platform seamless. If your app is not up-to-date, you might experience some compatibility issues like Instagram Story not uploading or the app not opening or being responsive at all.
Solution
Start by checking for pending system updates, to be sure your phone isn’t on an older version that is probably no longer supported by the app. Whether you’re using an Android or iOS device, you need your software regularly updated. Go to your phone settings and check for updates or check your app permissions to keep everything running smoothly.
8. Lack of Storage Space
Running out of space on your device can prevent uploads on your Instagram story. Maintaining sufficient storage for a smooth operation on your device is important, including how you use the Instagram app.
Solution
Actively free up space on your device to allow a seamless operation. Delete unnecessary files, apps, photos, videos, and more, or back them up somewhere before removing them from your device. This reduces the bugs and glitches you may be experiencing, ensuring you can now upload media without any hassle.
9. Re-Upload Your Story
Sometimes, not being able to upload an Instagram story is not serious. It could be due to a momentary technical glitch that will be resolved sooner than later. If the first attempt fails, delete it and try uploading it once again. Chances are that it will be successful on the second attempt.
Fixing issues with your story should be straightforward. For more additional tips on how to optimize your Story uploads and address common issues, you can check some of our best Story hacks for easy guidance.
10. Use Your Web Browser
There are times when the app just doesn’t work to upload stories, no matter how many times you try or what you do. In this situation, it’s advisable to change your access method and move from your mobile app to a web browser.
Enter instagram.com on your browser to get started, then try uploading your story from there. If possible, you can use another device to be sure the problem isn’t device-specific. Switch from your mobile app to a desktop or vice versa to upload from Instagram web. This alternative can help you get your content live when the app isn’t cooperating.
11. Try Meta Business Suite
Meta Business Suite is highly recommended for content management across the platform. It is a good alternative for uploading stories on your Instagram account, especially if the app isn’t functioning properly.
Log in to Meta Business Suite via the app or web browser and link your Instagram account. You can then upload your story from the dashboard like the Instagram app. You can also access extra features like scheduling or making collages to create engaging stories directly from the studio.
12. Contact Instagram’s Support
If you still cannot upload stories on Instagram after trying several methods, your next best bet is to contact the Instagram support team. This allows you to report the issue directly to them, including all the troubleshooting methods you’ve attempted to no avail.
Go to Instagram’s settings and find the option to Report. Provide as much detail as possible when describing the issue, including any error messages or notifications you may receive. This will help them determine how best to provide assistance.
Conclusion
This article highlights some of the common reasons why you may be unable to upload your Instagram story and the solutions to guide you. By addressing these issues, you can once again access your Story uploads and improve your overall Instagram experience. Start implementing these solutions today!
