‘How to watch Instagram stories anonymously’ has become a common research query for many Instagrammers and business owners That’s understandable for many valid reasons.
If you’re a brand, influencer, or Instagram user looking to grow and monetize your account, Instagram Stories is a powerful tool for your social media marketing and overall content marketing.
However, to successfully use Instagram Stories as part of your social media marketing, you must do a competitor analysis to know how your competitors use stories and how you can improve your Instagram Stories strategy. This might require you to watch your competitors’ Instagram stories anonymously to avoid being traced.
This and some other reasons are why people look for free ways to watch Instagram stories anonymously on their computer, Android device, or iPhone.
But the question is:
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Can You View Instagram Stories Anonymously?
Yes, there are several ways you can view Instagram stories anonymously, although Instagram has no native tool for doing so.
Consistently viewing someone’s stories without their knowledge can be seen as invasive and does not support Instagram’s goal of increasing user engagement.
So, while the methods discussed in this article provide ways you can view Instagram user’s stories anonymously, it’s important you use them responsibly.
5 Free Ways to Watch Instagram Stories Anonymously on PC, Android, and iPhone
Here are five ways you can view any publicly posted or shared Instagram story anonymously:
1. Create a New Instagram Account
Creating a new Instagram account is one of the surest ways to watch Instagram stories anonymously. You simply have to create a new Instagram account with a name, photos, and other vital information that cannot be traced to you or your business.
If you already have an Instagram account, you only need to add a new one and switch between them as often as you’d like to view someone’s Instagram stories anonymously.
However, if you don’t have an Instagram account, you must create one, as this method of viewing Instagram stories anonymously won’t work without an account.
You can also view your competitors’ stories through your friends’ Instagram accounts.
2. Switch to Airplane Mode
You can also watch Instagram stories anonymously without creating a different account by switching your phone to airplane mode before watching the Instagram story. This is one of the easiest ways to view Instagram stories with your identity hidden.
Here are steps to follow if you want to watch Instagram stories anonymously by switching to airplane mode:
- Open your Instagram application.
- Log into your account.
- Open the Instagram user’s profile whose story you want to watch anonymously.
- Wait for their stories to appear at the top of your screen.
- Turn on airplane mode on your Android device or iPhone to disconnect the internet.
- Then, proceed to watch the stories.
- Once you’re done, close the app before turning off your airplane mode.
This method is effective when the user doesn’t have too many stories uploaded. This is because once you open someone’s profile, Instagram automatically preloads the user’s stories to enable you to view them even without an internet connection.
Therefore, you can only view the stories successfully preloaded, as some would require you to turn on your internet connection.
3. Swipe and View from Adjacent Stories
Another way you can see a user’s Instagram stories anonymously is by swiping halfway between adjacent stories. When you’re done watching the stories of an account, it naturally rolls into the following account.
This records you on the view list. But to avoid this, you have to swipe halfway and have a sneak peek of the story you want to view anonymously.
For this to work, you must follow the Instagram account you want to view its stories.
Here’s how to do this:
- Locate the account you want to view its stories on your feed
- Tap on the Instagram story of the profile appearing before or after them.
- Swipe until the last story of the account before the one you want to view and
- Swipe halfway into the actual story you want to view, but don’t release your finger at this point.
- Similarly, you can swipe from the first story of the profile that comes after the actual story you want to view, and as usual, don’t release your fingers.
Releasing your finger halfway into their story will automatically record you as a viewer.
The only downside to this method is that you can only view their first story if it’s an image, as going further to the second story will reveal your identity.
Secondly, you won’t be able to watch a video story as it would require releasing your finger to let the video play.
4. Incognito Mode on Instagram Web
While this method doesn’t give you anonymity on Instagram, it makes you anonymous to the owner of the Instagram stories.
To use this method;
- Open Instagram on your web browser
- Switch to incognito mode.
- Locate the Instagram profile you want to view its stories and watch the stories without being recorded as a viewer.
If you want to enhance your anonymity, you must ensure you’re not logged in to Instagram while using this method, as it’s not foolproof.
5. View Instagram Stories with Free Instagram Private Story Viewer Apps.
Just like you can view private Instagram accounts and Facebook stories, you can also view Instagram stories without being seen when you use online private story viewer apps.
There are many options, but you have to be careful of the apps you use so you don’t use any that don’t work effectively.
I’ll explain, but for now, here’s a table that summarizes the effectiveness and the pros and cons of each of the methods discussed above:
Table Showing the Effectiveness of the Different Ways to View Instagram Stories Anonymously
| Method | Pros | Cons | Effectiveness |
| New account | Maintains anonymity effectively, as your identity is concealed in a new profile. | Managing multiple accounts can be a hassle, and Instagram might flag the account as spam. | Highly effective |
| Airplane mode | Simple and doesn’t require additional tools or accounts. | Limited to preloaded stories and requires careful steps to avoid detection. | Moderately effective |
| Adjacent Stories | Accessible within the Instagram app; no additional tools needed. | Limited view; might not work well for video stories | Low to moderately effective |
| Incognito Mode | Simple and doesn’t require any additional tools | Works only on web browsers and might not provide complete anonymity | Moderately effective |
| Third-party apps | Provides a straightforward solution and complete anonymity | Tasking, downloading, or using a third-party app. Risky in terms of security, too. | Highly effective. |
How to View Instagram Stories Anonymously Using Free Instagram Private Story Viewer Apps
Another way you can watch Instagram stories anonymously is by using private story viewer websites or applications. These third-party websites or applications allow you to discreetly watch people’s stories, videos, and images on Instagram without switching accounts or logging into the platform.
To view any user’s Instagram stories anonymously using third-party tools, you must provide their username or the link to their profile. This allows third-party apps to access their profiles and make their stories available for viewing or downloading.
Many third-party online tools allow you to watch Instagram stories anonymously. Popular among them are:
- mSpy InstaStories Viewer
- Glassagram
- IgAnony
- StoriesIG
- InstaNavigation
- Ghostify
1. mSpy InstaStories Viewer
mSpy InstaStories Viewer is a web-based platform that allows you to watch and download stories of Instagram users anonymously without registration or logging into your account. You can watch and download stories from public Instagram accounts even after the 24-hour time limit has expired.
The app allows you to secretly view stories and highlights, live broadcasts (online broadcasts, streams, recordings of broadcasts), posts (photos, videos, text publications), likes, comments, and subscribers of other Instagram users without even signing up on their platform.
It also allows you to download these stories, making it easy to use them for market research and competitor analysis later on. Another fascinating feature of InstaStories is that it allows you to view stories in any language.
How to Use InstaStories to View Instagram Stories Anonymously.
To use InstaStories, you must:
- Copy the name or link of the Instagram profile you want to view anonymously.
- Paste into the search box on the InstaStories homepage.
- Click on the search icon at the far right of the search box.
- You’ll now be taken to the Instagram profile, where you can view and download the person’s stories anonymously.
2. Glassagram For Watching Instagram Stories Anonymously
Glassagram is one of the best apps to view private Instagram stories because it provides a seamless and user-friendly experience. With its advanced algorithm, Glassagram can bypass the privacy settings of Instagram profiles, allowing users to view private stories effortlessly.
The app ensures the utmost privacy and security, safeguarding user data and maintaining anonymity while accessing private content.
Additionally, Glassagram offers a wide range of features, including quick and easy installation, real-time updates, and compatibility with various devices. It is the top choice for those seeking to view private Instagram stories.
How to Use Glassagramto View IG Stories Anonymously
To view private Instagram stories using Glassagram, follow these steps: First, download the Glassagram app from the official website. Then, install the app on your device.
Next, open the app and log in to your Instagram account. Once logged in, you can view private Instagram stories of the users you follow.
3. IgAnony
IgAnony is easily one of the best Instagram story viewers out there. In addition to offering you the basic features of an Instagram story viewer – the ability to watch, save, and download stories anonymously – the web-based app offers one of the best interfaces you can ask for.
How to Use IgAnony to View Instagram Stories Anonymously.
To use IgAnony, you must:
- Copy the name or link of the Instagram profile you want to view anonymously.
- Paste into the search box on the IgAnony homepage.
- Click on the search icon at the far right of the search box.
- You’ll now be taken to the Instagram profile, where you can view and download the person’s stories anonymously.
4. StoriesIG
StoriesIG is another third-party online tool that allows you to view and save Instagram stories without revealing your identity. You can watch and download photos, videos, IGTV videos, reels, carousels, photo albums, etc.
How to watch Instagram stories with StoriesIG
To watch and download Instagram stories on StoriesIG:
- Open Instagram from your browser or launch the app.
- Copy the URL or username of the profile you want to watch.
- Paste the link in the search box on the StoriesIG homepage for the profile to appear.
- Watch or save the stories for later.
5. InstaNavigation
InstaNavigation is another third-party online tool you can use to view Instagram stories anonymously. It doesn’t require you to log into your account to view people’s stories and allows you to download stories and view them later.
How to watch Instagram stories with InstaNavigation
To use InstaNavigation to watch stories anonymously, here are the simple steps to follow:
- Open Instagram from your browser or launch the app.
- Copy the URL or username of the profile you want to watch its stories.
- Paste the link in the search box on the InstaNavigation homepage for the profile to appear.
- Watch or save the stories for later.
6. Ghostify
If you prefer using your computer to browse Instagram, Ghostify might be your favorite Instagram story viewer. It works differently from others, allowing you to log into your Instagram account and view profiles and their stories without leaving a trace.
This is possible as Ghostify has a Chrome extension that, once turned on, makes you anonymous while browsing through Instagram.
Ghostify also has mobile applications that let you watch Instagram stories anonymously on your mobile device.
How to watch Instagram stories with Ghostify
To use Ghostify on your computer, here are the steps to follow:
- Download and install the Ghostify extension on your Chrome browser.
- Log into your Instagram account on the official Instagram website.
- Start browsing Instagram anonymously.
- The owner will not know the stories you view while your Ghostify extension is turned on.
These anonymous story view apps are critical to helping you learn more about your competitors without them knowing.
More Third-Party Apps for Watching Instagram Stories Anonymously
Other third-party apps with similar features worth mentioning are:
- Storistalker.
- Mollygram.
- StoriesDown.
- AnonStories.
Benefits of Watching Instagram Stories Anonymously
Here are the benefits of watching Instagram stories anonymously:
1. Privacy Protection
The first benefit of watching Instagram stories anonymously is that there’s no trace of your identity. This means your username doesn’t appear on the “viewer list” of the person you’re researching. That way, you avoid your competitors knowing you’re checking them out.
2. Competitive Analysis
Viewing competitors’ Instagram stories helps you have a competitive edge by keeping you updated on what your they’re up to. This helps you effectively and extensively analyze their Instagram marketing strategy and develop better tactics.
3. Freedom to Explore
When your competitors notice you’re following their Instagram marketing moves, they become more discrete and might even block you to limit your access.
By watching them anonymously, you have the freedom to explore their profile and gather the insights you need.
Watching Instagram Stories Without Being Seen – FAQs
How can I view Instagram stories anonymously without an account?
To view Instagram stories anonymously without an account, use third-party websites or apps like InstaStories, IgAnony, etc.
These Instagram viewers allow you to view any Instagram user’s stories, images, videos, and photo carousels by simply copying and pasting their username or URL into a search box.
How do you view anonymous stories on the Instagram app?
To view stories anonymously on the Instagram app:
- Open the app and let the stories preload.
- Turn on airplane mode on your device.
- View the stories as you’d normally do.
- Close the app and turn off the airplane mode.
Can someone see if I viewed their Instagram story if we are not friends?
Yes, someone can see that you viewed their Instagram story even if you’re not following each other.
Can people see how many times you viewed their Instagram story?
No, Instagram never displays how many times you’ve viewed a story. If you view someone’s Instagram story, the algorithm only shows when you viewed it. It doesn’t show if you re-watch the story later.
Can you view a story without the person knowing?
Yes. Here are three key ways to view a story without the owner knowing:
- Create another Instagram account with your identity concealed.
- Turn on airplane mode on your device before watching the story.
- Use third-party websites or apps to view the stories without having an account.
How can you see someone’s story if they hide their story?
If someone hides their Instagram story from you, you can only see it by viewing it with another account. This is because Instagram allows people to choose who to display their stories to and who to exclude from seeing them.
Therefore, if a story is hidden, you can only view it with an account that’s not barred from viewing it.
Will Instagram notify the person if I screenshot or save their post or story?
No. Instagram doesn’t notify users when you save or screenshot their stories, posts, or reels. However, they’ll be notified when you screenshot a message in vanish mode.
Is it possible to view everyone’s story without an account?
You can view people’s stories without an account using third-party websites or apps like InstaStories. These third-party online tools only require you to provide the user’s username or URL, and you can view their stories, photos, videos, and every other public information on the account.
Where can I watch Instagram stories anonymously?
You can watch Instagram stories anonymously on third-party websites like InstaStories, IgAnony, StoriesIG, InstaNavigation, etc.
How can I see someone’s old stories on Instagram?
The only guaranteed way to see someone’s old Instagram stories is if they saved them as highlights. With this, you can go to their profile and view their highlights to see the old stories you’re searching for. However, some third-party apps promise to show Instagram stories beyond the 24-hour time limit.
How can I see an Instagram story preview?
To preview an Instagram story, here are simple steps to follow:
- Launch the Instagram app on your device (it works best on mobile devices).
- Locate the Instagram user’s profile whose stories you want to preview.
- Once the stories have been preloaded, you’ll see a colorful ring around the user’s profile picture. That shows the user has an active story.
- Press and hold the profile picture to preview their story.
- Release your finger to exit the preview.
Is InstaStories safe to use?
Yes, InstaStories is entirely safe to use. The web-based app allows you to view people’s profiles and stories anonymously without creating an account on their site. Your personal information is safe, as the website does not store it.
Does Ghostify work on Instagram?
Yes, Ghostify allows you to view Instagram stories anonymously. It works on public Instagram accounts; however, if you’re already following a private account, you can view their stories on Instagram without being traced.
What is the best app to watch Instagram stories anonymously?
Glassagram is currently the best app for watching Instagram stories anonymously. This is mainly because of its commitment to ensuring user’s privacy. It does this by protecting users’ information and actions with SSL encryption. It also doesn’t save user’s download histories or track their actions on the platform.
Enjoy your Research Watching Instagram Stories Anonymously
Instagram stories are powerful tools for social media marketing. Studying your competitors’ Instagram stories will help you implement stories better. With these different ways to watch Instagram stories anonymously without giving your competitors a clue that you’re monitoring them, I hope you achieve your research goals.
Have you tried these ways to view Instagram stories without being seen? How was your experience?
Have you started using Instagram Stories for your account? I’d love to know more in the comments below.
How to Watch Instagram Stories Anonymously (Free) Share on X
She has 30+ years of experience in marketing/advertising with 12 years of experience in content marketing, social media, blogging, and SEO.
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Thanks for sharing this helpful article on how to watch Instagram stories anonymously.
I’ve always wondered if there was a way to view stories without being detected, and these tips are really useful.
However, I agree with the author that we should be careful when using third-party websites and apps. It’s always better to stick to Instagram’s own features or use a private account if we want to stay safe.
Thanks again for the great advice!
Hi Oana, welcome to Inspire To Thrive. You are most welcome. Yes, it is something to be careful with. It’s also interesting for us to know that others can find ways to view our private social media postings whether stories or other type of posts. Nothing is truly private online. I appreciate your feedback and have a great day!