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Building conversational flows for Instagram follows the same fundamental process as other channels in Chatbot Builder AI. However, due to Meta’s API policies, there are specific limitations and best practices you must follow to ensure a smooth user experience.

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Building Strategy

Recommendation: Always use the Omnichannel message type when building your flows. This ensures that your content is compatible if you decide to deploy the same flow to Facebook Messenger or other Meta platforms later.
You do not need to learn a new tool; simply use the standard Flow Builder to drag and drop your text, images, and quick replies.

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Critical Limitations

Instagram’s API is more restrictive than Facebook Messenger. Be aware of the following constraints when designing your bot.

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1. Subscriber Data Access

Unlike other platforms, Instagram does not provide full public profile information for all users.
  • Private Accounts: If a user with a Private Instagram account interacts with your bot, the API cannot retrieve their Name or Profile Picture.
  • Result: They will be added to your subscriber list, but their {{first_name}} and {{last_name}} fields may be empty or generic. Design your flows to ask for their name if it is crucial for your service.

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2. Conversation Types

No Group Chats: Automation only works in 1-on-1 Direct Messages. The chatbot cannot function inside Instagram group threads (conversations with more than 2 participants).

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3. Comment Automation

The Comment Growth Tool (auto-replying to comments on your posts) has specific boundaries:
  • Supported: Organic Posts, Reels.
  • Not Supported: Instagram Ads (Dark Posts) and IGTV videos.

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Checklist for Success

Before launching your Instagram bot, verify:

Facebook Connection

Your Instagram Business Account must be actively linked to a Facebook Page.

24-Hour Window

Instagram enforces a 24-hour messaging window. You cannot send promotional messages to users who haven’t interacted with your bot in the last 24 hours.