> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.meetcosmo.ai/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Instagram Direct Messages Integration

> Connect your Instagram account to manage DMs with Cosmo

## Why Instagram DMs

* **1 billion+ active users** on Instagram
* **High engagement** especially for visual brands
* **Story replies** convert to DMs automatically
* **Young demographic** prefers Instagram over email

## Setup

<Steps>
  <Step title="Requirements">
    Instagram Business or Creator account linked to Facebook Page
  </Step>

  <Step title="Go to Settings">
    Navigate to **Settings** → **Integrations** in Cosmo
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect Instagram">
    Click **Instagram Direct** card → **Connect**
  </Step>

  <Step title="Select Account">Choose your Instagram Business account</Step>
  <Step title="Grant Permissions">Authorize Cosmo to read and send DMs</Step>
</Steps>

<Info>
  Connection takes 2-3 minutes. Once connected, Cosmo automatically responds to
  Instagram DMs.
</Info>

## Requirements

### Account Type

Must be **Instagram Business** or **Creator** account (not personal)

**How to convert:**

1. Open Instagram app
2. Go to Settings → Account
3. Switch to Professional Account
4. Choose Business or Creator

### Facebook Page Required

Instagram must be connected to a Facebook Business Page:

1. Create Facebook Business Page (if you don't have one)
2. Connect to Instagram: Settings → Linked Accounts → Facebook
3. Link your Instagram to the Facebook Page

## 24-Hour Messaging Window

Same as WhatsApp:

* Can message customers **anytime** if they messaged you in last 24 hours
* After 24 hours, can only reply if they message you again
* Story replies and mentions reopen the window

<Tip>
  **Pro tip:** Post engaging Stories with question stickers to encourage DMs and
  reopen messaging windows.
</Tip>

## Supported Message Types

* **Text** messages
* **Images** and photos
* **Videos** (up to 15 minutes)
* **Voice messages**
* **Stories** (replies convert to DMs)
* **Quick replies** with buttons
* **Generic templates** with images and buttons

## Story Replies

When someone replies to your Story, it creates a DM:

* Cosmo can automatically respond
* Great for re-engagement campaigns
* Use question stickers to encourage replies

## Best Practices

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Respond Fast">
    Instagram users expect quick responses. Aim for under 1 hour.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Use Visual Content">
    Send product photos, videos, and carousel messages—it's Instagram!
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Leverage Stories">
    Post Stories with questions/polls to drive DM conversations.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Keep Casual Tone">
    Instagram is more casual than WhatsApp—adjust AI personality accordingly.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Compliance

Instagram prohibits:

* Spam and unsolicited messages
* Automation that mimics human behavior inappropriately
* Selling prohibited items
* Harassment or abusive behavior

## Troubleshooting

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Connection Issues" icon="plug">
    Can't connect Instagram account
  </Card>

  <Card title="Messaging Issues" icon="message">
    Messages not sending or receiving
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

### Connection Issues

**Can't connect Instagram?**

* Verify account is Business or Creator (not personal)
* Check Facebook Page is connected
* Ensure you're admin of both Instagram and Facebook Page
* Disconnect and reconnect Facebook in Instagram settings

**Messages not appearing?**

* Check connection status in Cosmo Settings
* Verify webhook is active (reconnect if needed)
* Refresh Instagram permissions

### Messaging Issues

**Can't send messages?**

* Check 24-hour messaging window
* Verify recipient hasn't blocked you
* Make sure account is active (not restricted)

**Need Help?**

Contact our team: [eng@meetcosmo.ai](mailto:eng@meetcosmo.ai)