The expression refers to methods and tools, frequently shortcuts or scripts, used to save images from the Instagram platform. These methods circumvent the standard Instagram application’s lack of a direct download feature for user-generated content, such as photos and videos.
The appeal of such tools stems from a desire to archive personal content, repurpose images for other projects (subject to copyright restrictions), or simply save photos of interest. Historically, users resorted to browser extensions, third-party applications, and command-line tools to achieve this functionality. The availability and ease of use of these methods vary based on platform updates and security measures implemented by Instagram.