How to Make a Link Open in Your Default Browser Instead of Instagram

When you tap a link in Instagram, it usually opens inside Instagram’s built-in browser. This can be frustrating — the in-app browser doesn’t save logins, lacks extensions, and may block features such as password managers or ad blockers. Unfortunately, Instagram does not currently allow you to set an external browser as default, but there are a few workarounds depending on your device.

When viewing a web page inside Instagram:

1. Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
2. Choose “Open in Browser.”

This forces Instagram to hand the link off to your default browser (Safari, Chrome, Firefox, etc.). It’s a manual step but works every time.

You can also:

1. Tap the URL bar in the Instagram browser.
2. Long-press and select Copy link.
3. Open your preferred browser and paste the link manually.

It’s slower, but ensures you open it in your chosen browser.

If you frequently share links via Instagram (for example, in your bio or stories), use a link shortener or redirect service such as:

• Linkly – lets you create short branded URLs that automatically open in a real browser, not Instagram’s webview.
• Bitly, Rebrandly, or TinyURL – similar tools that give you control over how your links behave.

When the link opens, users can easily tap “Open in Browser” or be redirected to your preferred destination with tracking enabled.

• iOS: Apple does not allow apps like Instagram to automatically pass links to Safari. You must manually choose “Open in Browser.”
• Android: Some Android devices allow you to override webview behavior using developer options or intent filters, but this requires technical setup and can break app functionality.

In short, there is no permanent system-level way to make Instagram always open links in your default browser.

If you manage campaigns or analytics, remember that Instagram’s in-app browser may affect:

• Cookie tracking
• UTM parameters
• Pixel loading

To ensure proper tracking, use tools like Linkly or Userbird to verify that link opens are counted accurately, even when users stay in the in-app browser.

Instagram forces links to open in its internal browser by design, and there is no official setting or reliable workaround to change that permanently. Your only options are to manually open links in your preferred browser or use smart link-management tools to simplify the process for users.