On Wednesday, Google officially confirmed that Instagram was causing excessive battery drain on Android devices, particularly affecting Google Pixel phones and others running the latest updates.
The tech giant announced that Instagram has rolled out an updated app version 382.0.0.49.84, which addresses this battery consumption problem.
Instagram update targets Android battery drain
Many Android users have reported that Instagram, one of the most popular social media apps globally with over a billion users, drains batteries excessively, even when the app is running in the background.
This issue became especially noticeable after the May 2025 security patch rollout on Pixel devices and some Samsung Galaxy models, including the Galaxy S25 and Galaxy A53.
Google’s support page stated, “Starting today, Instagram is rolling out an updated app that should fix a battery drain issue on Android devices. Please make sure you have the latest version of the Instagram app (build 382.0.0.49.84) to resolve this issue.” Users were advised to update Instagram through the Google Play Store to mitigate the problem.
Users’ reports highlighted that Instagram was consuming a disproportionate amount of battery compared to other apps with similar screen-on times. For example, a Galaxy A53 user noted that Instagram used 12.4% of its battery for 54 minutes, whereas WhatsApp only used 2.4% for 49 minutes.
How to fix the battery drain by updating Instagram
If you are experiencing rapid battery drain linked to Instagram, follow these steps to fix the issue:
1. Check your Instagram version
Long-press the Instagram app icon on your Android device, tap “App info,” and scroll to find the version number. It should be 382.0.0.49.84 or higher.
2. Update Instagram via Google Play Store
Open the Google Play Store, search for Instagram, and tap “Update” if available. This ensures you have the latest version with the battery drain fix.
3. Restart your device
After updating, restart your phone to allow the system to apply the changes and avoid any residual app processes.
4. Clear Instagram cache (optional)
Go to Settings > Apps > Instagram > Storage > Clear Cache. This can help remove temporary files that might contribute to performance issues.
5. Avoid using Instagram in the background (temporary)
Until you update, consider closing Instagram completely when not in use to reduce battery consumption.
Many users had tried downgrading the app or switching to Instagram Lite as temporary fixes, but the official update now eliminates the need for these workarounds.
Google did not specify the exact technical cause of the battery drain or whether all Android devices were affected, but it confirmed that all Pixel phones with the May update experienced the issue. The fix will help Samsung, Huawei, Honor, and other Android users.
This incident underscores the importance of updating apps to maintain device performance and battery health. Google and Instagram’s quick response highlights their commitment to resolving user issues promptly.