Instagram is down: Instagram Stories not loading in UK, hundreds of iPhone and Android users complain

Taylor Bushey
Thu, 23 Apr 2026 12:13:33 +0000

Instagram is down for hundreds of users.

Users are reporting that the Meta-owned social media app isn't loading recent Instagram Stories on the platform. The feature allows you to share vertical, full-screen photos and videos that disappear after 24 hours — appearing in a bar at the top of your feed.

According to tracking website Downdetector, hundreds of users have reported issues with the app not loading properly in the UK.

Several users have posted on X, explaining that recent Stories aren't loading on their feed.

instagram story down???? or just me?!! 😭
— serafina. (@jamlgt_) April 23, 2026

One user wrote: "My business runs off my stories."

WHY WHY WHY is instagram down again!!!! My business runs off my stories IM PANICKINGGGGG pic.twitter.com/oD53edscIJ
— 𝐄 𝐌 𝐈 𝐋 𝐘 🏹🤍 (@emilyluluhuntt) April 23, 2026

Another user said, "Instagram stories are down today. I feel so livid."

Instagram stories are down today I feel so livid
— 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥🐉 (@KatheuNzyimi) April 23, 2026

One user wrote, "New stories only watchable after searching each account."

Instagram stories is not reaching feed? New stories only watchable after searching each account. I've got 3 accounts, checked in 3 of em. Same problem. Am i shadow banned or it's a universal issue?@Meta @instagram #instagram #instagramdown #instagramstory
— Kannanunni A (@kannanunnihbk) April 23, 2026

Instagram Stories first arrived on the platform in 2016 — aiming to compete with similar features found on Snapchat.

Users experienced a recent major outage from the app earlier in March, with thousands reporting issues with direct messages, app functionality, and feed refreshing.

However, outages on Instagram appear to be rare. Only one widespread outage was reported in 2025, and only a couple of issues were seen in 2024.

Stay tuned to GBN Tech as we keep you updated on the outage.