iPad vs iPhone: what's different?
The iPad download workflow is nearly identical to iPhone, with one key advantage: the larger screen makes it easier to manage ZIP files from carousel downloads and to organize downloaded media. iPadOS also has a more capable Files app with better folder management.
Like iPhone, Safari downloads land in the Files app first, not directly in Photos. The Files → Photos move is still required, but iPad's Files app makes this easier with drag-and-drop and split-screen multitasking.
Step-by-step: Instagram Reel to iPad Photos
- Open the Instagram app on iPad, find the Reel or photo, tap the share arrow → Copy Link.
- Open Safari on iPad and go to dropzap.digital/instagram-downloader.
- Tap the URL field → Paste.
- Tap Download. The file saves to the Files app.
- Open Files → Downloads → tap-and-hold the file → Share → Save Video (or Save Image).
For carousels, the ZIP opens automatically in Files. You can then save each photo individually to Photos, or use iPad's drag-and-drop to move multiple photos at once.
iPad-specific tips
Split-screen advantage — Open Safari in one half of the screen and Files in the other. This lets you download and organize media without switching apps constantly.
Drag-and-drop — After downloading, you can drag files directly from Files into Photos when both apps are in split-screen mode.
Apple Pencil — If you're using iPad with Apple Pencil, you can annotate downloaded Reels or photos in the Photos app before sharing.