Technical Tutorial

How to Export and Download Your Instagram Chat History (DMs)?

💡 Did you know?

Once you have downloaded your Instagram archive, our tool can magically turn your DMs into a beautiful printed book or PDF.

Create my Instagram book

Are you looking to save your best Instagram Direct Messages (DMs) before deactivating your account, or simply to keep a safe backup of a precious relationship?

While the app doesn't have a simple "print" button, there is an official and free method provided by Meta to export your complete Instagram chat history. Follow this updated step-by-step guide to download your archive properly.

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Part 1: How to export your Instagram messages

To get a clean backup of your DMs, you need to request a data file from Meta's Accounts Center. This manipulation can be done directly from the Instagram app on your smartphone.

1
Open the Instagram app. Go to your profile page and tap the three horizontal lines (menu) at the top right to access your Settings.
Instagram settings menu
2
At the top of the settings menu, tap on the Meta Accounts Center.
Meta accounts center
3
Under the Account Settings section, click on Your information and permissions.
Your information and permissions Instagram
4
Tap on Download your information, then select Download or transfer information on the next screen.
Download information Instagram
5
Select your Instagram account from the list of profiles (this step only appears if you have multiple accounts linked).
Select Instagram profile
6
Choose the "Specific types of information" option. Do not choose "All available information" as the file would be too heavy.
Specific information
7
Scroll through the list and check only "Messages". Then, click Next and select Download to device.
Select Messages Instagram
8
Crucial Configuration: Select the date range of your choice. Under Format, you must select JSON (not HTML). Under Media Quality, select Low to ensure a fast process. Finally, tap "Create files".
JSON format Instagram
Processing time: Meta takes between 10 minutes and 24 hours to generate your archive. You will receive an email notification when it's ready. You can then return to this page and click Download to save the ZIP file to your device.

Part 2: Print your Instagram chat in a real book

Now that your Instagram archive is safely downloaded as a .zip file on your device, what's next? A raw JSON file is basically computer code, impossible to read normally.

This is where our tool steps in to reconstruct your chat visually and turn it into a physical book.

1
Go to the MonLivreSMS platform, create an account, and click on the Instagram icon on the import page.
MonLivreSMS Instagram Platform
2
Click on the Select a File button and upload the ZIP archive you just downloaded from Meta. Do not extract (unzip) it.
Upload Instagram file
3
The platform will automatically read the archive and show you a list of all your conversations. Select the specific chat you wish to print, and the magic happens!
Select conversation to print

Don't let your memories vanish

A simple bug or an accidental deletion can erase years of digital memories. By transforming your Instagram DMs into a personalized printed book, you freeze your relationship in time.

Our tool securely imports your backup file and generates a free preview of your future book, including your real chat bubbles and shared photos.

Start creating your book
Quick and easy

Create your book in 3 easy steps

Turn your conversations into a premium souvenir book in just a few minutes. No technical skills required.

1

Export your conversations

Select your mailbox and export your messages in just a few clicks. Your data remains 100% private.

2

Personalize your book

Choose your dates, add a dedication, select the cover. Preview the result in real time.

3

Receive it at home

Your book is printed with care and delivered worldwide free of charge. Digital PDF available instantly.

Compatible with all your messaging systems

Whatever your favourite application

Import your conversations from any platform

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