Sneak peek: Itsdagram is a full-featured Instagram client for Windows Phone 8 with direct uploads

By Daniel Rubino
last updated

What’s that? You need some more Instagram news for Windows Phone to keep going? Well, we don’t have any more info on an official app, though May keeps popping up. In the meantime, it looks like a new contender is getting ready to enter the field: Itsdagram.

Made by developer Daniel Gary (who also makes the popular Pinsation app), Itsdagram steps up its game against the current uploader Instagraph in that it allows unfettered, direct access to Instagram’s service. That means you can create an account, upload directly for posting, deleting, commenting, liking, searching, tagging, etc.--just about everything else an official client can offer. Check out the video below to see it in action.

So how does it work if there is no middle-man server? Well, it uses the Instagram API, ahem.

Now that raises all sorts of issues, including if Instagram alters it and whether or not they will tolerate such an app on the Store. There is some precedent for either way, after all, all of those HD YouTube video and Pandora apps on Windows Phone are using “hacked” APIs too and they’re still alive and kicking. However, Instagram is kind of a prickly company, so who knows how they will respond to this app.

Pricing looks to be set for $1.49 with a free trial (one upload to test) and we’re looking at one to two weeks for submission as final features are being instantiated. The app itself has no filters, but with the small army of apps that already do this for Windows Phone, many of which are free, we don’t see that as a problem.

Once again, the Windows Phone community finds a way. The only questions remain is if an official client is on the way and if it is any good (rumors suggest it’s an iOS port with very few features—then again, it’ll be free).

Stay tuned for more information on Itsdagram here at Windows Phone Central. Leave a comment and share your thoughts on this option for your heavy Instagram users. Yay or nay?

Daniel Rubino
Daniel Rubino
Editor-in-chief

Daniel Rubino is the Editor-in-chief of Windows Central, head reviewer, podcast co-host, and analyst. He has been covering Microsoft since 2007 when this site was called WMExperts (and later Windows Phone Central). His interests include Windows, laptops, next-gen computing, and for some reason, watches. Before all this tech stuff, he worked on a Ph.D. in linguistics, watched people sleep (for medical purposes!), and ran the projectors at movie theaters because it was fun.

298 Comments
  • Sweet, another win for our platform.
  • not really if it's not official.  It's more of a win for our community of developers!
  • DEVELOPERS!!!! DEVELOPERS!!!! DEVELOPERS!!!!
  • HA!
  • How can this have no filters? The only party not requiring and instagram API...
  • Balmer... Such a classic stage presence. Lol
  • WinPhanDev WOOT!!!
  • Our platform always finds a way to win.
  • Very interesting.
  • Another knockoff? Oh, for sure.
  • I feel uneasy paying for this app when it could break from an API change at any given time :/
  • True, though as we've seen before with MetroRadio, MetroTube and more, when that happens the dev can push out an update within a few days to "fix" the issue. It's a hassle, but it's also a great solution when it works. It's all tradeoffs. Personally, I like 3rd party devs as they have more on the line and can move faster than "official" ones. MetroRadio, for instance, can do more things than the official Pandora app (including not being limited to WP8).
  • I will prefer a more legal way to upload as official or instagraph.. I don't like to support "illegal" usage of API.. However, I do think is awesome and a good way to make the platform better..
  • It's about showing instagram there's a market that they are losing out on... So yes you should use it.
  • The best way to show them is to not use their service at all. Why force yourself to support somebody who doesn't support you (by providing an official or sanctioned client)? Personally, I think Instagram is pointless since I can apply filters with a myriad of apps that are free and fully-supported with Windows Phone (including Nokia Lens), and post them to Twitter right in the OS without even using a separate app. Being able to do all that, what do I even need Instagram for anyway?
  • Well.. Some people use it for the social networking side of it, not for taking pictures and applying filters..
  • Right, but I can post any photo to Twitter or Facebook without the Instagram app. If you're not using the filters, then why not just use the native app for whatever social networks you're posting to anyway?
  • I think he also means the social aspect built into instagram..
  • Exactly.. Instagram is a photo only app meanwhile FB is more about what you like, share and other stuff.. Not mentioning all the info that FB gets from you.
  • Yeah, since Instagram makes money out of you by applying some undiscovered aspect of quantum dynamics as opposed to selling your soul to Satan via advertisements... *sheesh*
  • Does Instagram even make money? I always assumed it was like every other mobile app tied to a web service out there that has little to real revenue and will likely be non-existent in 3 years. Facebook is probably one of the few expections. Pinterest and all those? They'll be gone by 2016.
  • You ARE aware that they are owned by Facebook, right?  They aren't (unfortunately) going anywhere.  I still think they'll be swallowed up by Facebook and be a part of the real network's photo feature set.
  • I've never understood what is so amazing about the Instagram "social" aspect. I see EVERY square cropped pet pic and filtered lunch photo in my Twitter and Facebook feed. The Instagram network can't be THAT great if all of these pics are being reposted on real networks.
  • Instagram is not that great, and it isn't even that popular. There are only about 30 million users. To out that into perspective mysapce has about 25 million active users.
  • Well, you gotta think about it from a "I want WP to succeed". I know most of us really don't care much for instagram. Some b/c they really don't use it, other maybe a bit out of spite :) But it is a top requested app for the platform and people are basing a purchase decision on it (at least a factor). So getting Instagram on WP is good for us since more phones will sell and we get more apps that we do care about.
    Not using this to show Instagram that we don't care won't help. They won't realize it. But when they see traffic coming from Windows Phones in decent numbers, that bolsters the argument for making an official app. They see the need. For all those companies, it's a numbers game. Simple.
    Just a thought :)
  • Instagram IS a social network just like Facebook or Twitter. You post to Instagram because you have followers there just like you do on Facebook or Twitter. It is not an app that just takes pictures.....
  • Oh. Seems redundant, but I guess there's a social network for everything else...
  • Yeah, I agree...  I don't use it.. I hardly have enough time to pay attention to Facebook, then Twitter.    Pinterest... Path... Google+... Instagram...  who has time for them all?
  • " I don't like to support "illegal" usage of API."
    Fair enough, but even the Windows Phone Central app mis-uses the YouTube API to give you guys the "HD" option that everyone so clamored for. If Google won't allow that and we have crap quality for vids, it reflects badly on us as people think the app is crap. Just think: every YouTube app on Windows Phone that uses HD video is "illegal" usage of an API. Every one of them. It's the reality of the market.
  • Shhhhhh ;)
  • Lol...
  • Hey Daniel, you just broke the magic... :)
  • Man just don't download the App bro! Everyone else is quite happy for our so called illegal usage of API's.
  • I am just commenting.. Lol anyways I'll give it a spin just to see how,it works and support the dev..
  • Uhhhh doesn't instagraph manipulate the system to make it think your W8 phone is a Android phone? That's just as illegal as using API's.
  • Nope. It actually uploads your photo thru actual Android/iOS hardware, which in turn is not a violation. It doesn't manipulate the system. It's like if you took a photo, gave it to a friend on iOS and he uploaded it to your account for you using the official app. No different.
  • Yeah but you're still using a W8 and instagram thinks your phone is either android or IOS. That's manipulating the system. Which I have NO PROBLEM WITH. I was just saying re-routing or API methods are work around and not official. Therefore to me there's no difference. I actually think it's great that these devs come up with these tricks. GOD knows we need'em since a lot of companies neglect W8.
  • Using logic, I find many flaws with this statement as a knowledgable programmer.
     
    There is something illegal going on and there is no way around it. If they aren't spoofing the devices, that means there are actual physical phones that run 24/7. If this is the case, the only way they can get access to upload is through the "official" Instagram app on either iOS or Android.
     
    Unless Instagraph has employees monitoring and using these phones 24/7 to submit uploads, then the process on the phone has to be automated.
     
    If the upload process is automated, then there isn't ANY possible way to do that without hacking/modifying the "official" app.
     
    If they hacked/modified the "official" app: Illegal.
  • Who cares about the mumbo jumbo lol. W8 devices have 2 alternate methods to use instagram now. We should be happy. It doesn't matter how they do it. Neither is official but they both work.
  • +1
  • Instagram will C&D these out of existence when their app hits the store.  And rubes will have thrown away money on apps that will never get updated.
  • Not necessarily. At least on Desktop Windows you can send keyboard/mouse inputs to any programm without modifying the program itself. This is used e.g. for automated testing. If you do just that on an Android device there again is no breach of the term of service (given that you're neither using the APIs from an alternate App nor modifying protected code).
  • So is my account info stored on this Android or ios device? I'm sorry I'm just trying to understand how it works. :)
  • I'm not sure how Instagraph works, but I can assure you your account information is stored only on your phone with Itsdagram.
  • Thanks for clarifying. :)
  • I believe they (instagraph) have to store some user info on their servers (probably encrypted) since it's not instant and has to be queued and batch processed. 
  • We use real, regular iOS and Android devices and we did not even touch Instagram official app.
    We carefully studied Insta ToS with our lawyers to be sure not to sell an illegal app to users.
    Direct Insta private API call is explicitly forbidden in the ToS, so we chosen not to take that way, but if they will tolerate this, it will be good for the WP community :)
    All user data is completely wiped from servers and devices just after publishing, privacy is our first rule :)
  • Glad to know ^.^
  • Suffice to say....I didn't.... :)
     
    I love the clever way you guys solved the upload problem.  Also, I did some reading that you guys are running virtual Android devices on Windows Azure?  That's so awesome.
  • Thanks for clearing that up for us guys....and that right there is why WP community is a cut above the rest.
  • If its illegal then most likely Microsoft won't approve of it in the store. But this could be a clear sign that the real app is on its way. At least that's what I assume .
  • Quite often the people doing those tests don't know enough about those things to actually discover a problem. Perhaps there are certain Apps they are called to look for but aside from that this most likely only becomes a problem once Instagram picks up the phone and calls someone at Microsoft telling them that there is a problem with the App.
  • It's not that they "can" move faster than official parties, they just happen to. Official app developers have the ability to, they just devote resources to other platforms. As they probably should.
    It's a good thing Verizon and AT&T don't focus all of their resources on rural Iowa and Kansas. Same principle.
  • We keep hearing that the actual Instagram is coming this month. They need to get this app out now or why would anyone buy it with the official one available? 
  • I would like to point out that they can't break this app without breaking the apps for their other platforms.  Not saying it won't ever happen, but it would lock alot of people out of their apps until they update if they do that.
  • Not necessarily. If Instagram changes the API, it might hurt third-party folks, but they'd certainly push out updates for THEIR apps with an API change, so it's not like they would do anything but affect developers to whom they have no ties.
  • No, they also risk alienating users who don't update their apps frequently.  My wife, for instance, never updates her apps.
     
    It's a real problem.  Not saying they won't do it, but they have to know if they lock out older versions of their apps, they risk locking out a decent number of users.
  • Keith is right on this though. Unofficial Pandora apps "broke" frequently because the APIs they used were unofficial ones, separate from the ones that the real apps used (although MetroRadio is now using the real APIs meaning it will rarely break). Itsdagraph could break but it would mean that Instagram changed the official APIs and their iOS and Android apps would also have to be updated.
  • I would like to clarify that I am using the "official" API, just the undocumented one that the official apps use.
  • WP 7.8 please, we are not getting any love!
  • Just posted to say "Thank You!" for your effort, Dan! Its developers like you who make the platform and we are fortunate to have your support. I may not be your target as I don't use Instagram now, may just buy it to show my support :)
  • Any chances to WP7.8 users to have the app?
  • I posted below, but my sister-in-law is using an HTC Titan...no commitments on a timeframe.
  • So there's a hope for WP7 user? Yay
  • As long as there's a committment to it being released on 7.8, you already have my money.
  • Huh.. Interesting.. Good luck.. Hope it passes certification.,
  • "It's a real problem.  Not saying they won't do it, but they have to know if they lock out older versions of their apps, they risk locking out a decent number of users"
    First things first, thank you for giving this a try.  Always good to see people shoot for creative solutions on this platform.  Second, I think you are on to something.  IIRC, Hipstamatic is allowed to post to instagram via that API, too.
     
     
  • Thanks for posting this.  I didn't realize they had opened up access to some third parties.  Very interesting...
  • I just find it funny that people will be hesitant to buy an app that's less than $2 but will dish out almost any amount in real life for food, games, clothes, etc. It's only $1.50, and its helping us get our message across to Instagram that we can do it without them. So as long as it's a quality app, I'm buying.
  • I will pay for an app if it is 'worth' MY money. If I pay for something food, clothes, etc., no matter what the cost, I've deemed it worthy of my funds! This app, regardless of the price, is not something I would use, and even if I were interested, I don't deem it worth my money.
  • The problem is not with people not willing to buy an App that they would not use anyway - why should they? It's also not with people interested in an App but unhappy with it's features or it's implementation (bugs, etc.) But there is a problem with people complaining that Apps do in fact cost money to make and maintain. 99 Cents is not a lot of money. It's about the same as a coke at McDonalds and most people pay that without thinking but act as if they are being robbed if an App they would like to have does cost money. And the matter of fact is that 1 Download of a 99 Cent App make the developer about the same money as 10 - 20 thousand ad impressions (and people are complaining about Ads as well).
  • Don't worry. Instagran are actually amateur company got luck for a popularity. Because they came up first with the idea. They can't make a web version and tool lol of time to make Android version too. They don't have a solid API. So can't change easily.
  • I'm uneasy paying for an app that has all kinds of fine print like the one before this one. I have to admit, the video helps.
  • Take the Risk!!! If it backfires we can take up a WPCentral collection where the first 10 contributors each send you $0.15 by PayPal.
    :-)
  • The Devs for Windows phone are truly something.
  • Yea, they are God like, I saw one walk across water once. They are good. Much appreciated!
  • Yeah they are! They make some very attractive alternative apps! I don't even mind paying for! I also couldn't stand buying apps on IOS and android because the apps UI blew.....
  • Will it be available to WP 7.8 Users? :D
  • Well still not worth my money. I wish I hadn't paid for Instagraph. It does work as stated but the editing and filters are crap.
  • Well, that's Aviary, not their fault--you don't need to use Aviary to edit/fitler your photos on Instagraph, you could just Save. On Nokia, I use Creative Studio first and then just post directly through Instagraph. You can do that with any filter app out there and there are *plenty* of amazing and free ones. So honestly, that's not a valid criticism of Instagraph (of which there are a few others ones you could make).
  • *their not there. ;)
  • @Quin 2013: You are wrong. Daniel's grammar is correct. Plus, if you understand the sentence, don't try to be an English teacher. He already has a job with Mobile Nations...doesn't need your advice.
  • You failed, because he went back and changed it. it seems that you're the one that needs an English lesson on how to write a sentence.
  • I doubt it. This is a blog. I already have my undergraduate degree. I don't need to worry ab blog grammar. Mine is just fine anyway. What's the point in trolling a blog for grammatical errors?
  • So you doubt that you need lessons? You sound unsure. Did you have food yet? You sound grumpy. And it's"about" not ab. :D
  • You are right Daniel. And I meant no disrespect to the devs. I commend them. Just a personal thing is all. Having to go in and out of apps is a pain. But, I do use the app. And I appreciate all you do. Thank you sir.
  • Can't you filter with #2InstawithLove and save? :)
     
  • It crops the picture because the aspect ratio is different. At least that is what happened to me.
  • Manual cropping is coming :)
  • It does have that annoying peeve, however, where you cannot choose what part gets cropped. It's like freaking science
  • I use lomogram for filters
  • Lazylens is the best app by far but I don't know if it's available for WP8
  • Instagram just needs to stop being lame and give the people what they want!
  • Exactly
  • oh common........not again
  • I think you mean c'mon or come on. Common means something occurs frequently, among other things.
  • I think he meant, "Oh (instagram apps are) common.......(there is a)not(her one) again
  • Haha.
  • i feel like instagram would work well integrated directly into the OS.  maybe some day that will happen lol
  • +1
  • Definitely a yay, though I'd be worried if Instagram would change/break their API.
  • The official Instagram App is in tests...don't go spending money on these Apps. Learn to wait. Unless your need to share your meals is THAT big...:P
  • As Daniel Rubino mentioned, some people prefer 3rd party apps because of the support and the creativity. I understand your point though, but not everyone wants or cares for "official" apps as long as the 3rd party apps are functional.
  • I agree Cory....chances are the official app is gonna be a cheap iOS port.....no thanks. I'd rather pay for a better designed 3rd party app. Ad long as the functionality is there.
  • It's a $1.49, dude..   Why do people get all weird about pocket change when it comes to apps?
  • $1.49 here, $1.49 there, and when you notice, you've spent tons of money on Apps you don't really use or aren't official and at the slightest whim from the companies who own the brands, you're with a useless non-functional App. I understand some want to support developers, and I support that, but in this case, I think it would be better to wait for the official App and then see what does it offer and what it doesn't and then see 3rd parties.
  • That will be the people's choice whether to buy 3rd party apps or not, But why are you actively commenting here and asking people NOT to buy this app?
  • I'm not asking people not to buy this or that App. I'm just giving friendly advise. People also went along with the Instagraph thing and then I've read complaints and seen bad reviews on the WP Store because it lacked this or that or wasn't official or didn't do this or that. The official App is very near, I would advise people who can't live - for some reason that I can't grasp - without Instagram to be patient and only go and buy a dozen not-exactly-Instagram Apps after the official release. But hey, if you want to go ahead and buy them, I'm not stopping you ;)
  • It doesn't look like a friendly advise,it looks like you are on campaign or something to tell others not to buy this app.
  • I agree, DJCBS, it can add up, but in this case there is no legit proof that there IS an official Instagram app coming and if it does come, it could be Nokia exclusive for a while even. I just grew up with Atari and Nintendo, and Sega and XBox... We drop money on games all the time that we only play for a month or two and look at those prices..
  • The Instagram App is in testing already. I was told that directly by a friend at Nokia. Which adds up with the information Nokia in Sweden gave etc. So I have all the reasons to believe the release is very near (according to what I was told, the only thing delaying Instagram on WP is...yeah, you guessed it. Google. They're putting pressure on Instagram to delay release in yet another attempt to cripple WP). I grew too and precicely because of that I've learned to be patient and to exercise caution. But as I've said, I'm not preventing anyone from buying whichever Apps they wish. It's not my money.
    I won't do it. But then again, I have no intention of getting the official Instagram anyway. God knows Facebook and Twitter already distract me enough, I don't need a 3rd social network for sharing food and feet LOL
  • "$1.49 here, $1.49 there, and when you notice, you've spent tons of money on Apps you don't really use or aren't official and at the slightest whim from the companies who own the brands, you're with a useless non-functional App"
    The hyperbole though....
     
    it's 1.49.  Chance are, people spend the money on apps they feel is worth it...then again, I've seen people blow $20 on microtransactions on the 360 and PS3 (here's looking at you NBA 2k13).  In the end, it's still less than the price of a gatorade. 
  • +1 because you mentioned 2K13 ;)
  • Exactly.  The people compalining about $1.49 for an app probably just got out of the bathroom from putting a $1.79 bottle of Coke into the toilet 45 minutes after drinking it.
  • Yeah, but they ENJOYED that Coke!  No guarantee they'd enjoy this app.
  • No guarantee you'll enjoy that Coke when you buy it...there might be a finger in it...(Friends reference)
  • Pinsation was pretty bad, i think that was the pinterest app that showed the wrong profile when you logged in and didnt even show your boards. 
     
     
  • Actually, no, that was Pinspiration.
  • sorry, you are correct. 
     
    I thin pinsation was the app that is the mobile version of the site i believe. 
  • Sorry, wrong again.  Pinsation uses the latest version of the Pinterest API.  It's how I got started doing this, porting apps to Windows Phone that aren't available.
     
    Right now there's a bug I haven't had time to address that causes it to crash intermittently, but other than that, it's the only fully working Pinterest client.
  • Pinsation has a very well laid out "Metro" interface. It is stunningly beautiful, Other developers should look to it as an example of what a Windows Phone app should look and work like. If Itsdagram is anything like Pinsation, it will be a winner.
  • Agreed +1
  • Yep, pinsation is pretty great other than the occasional crash.
  • I wish you had a "Buy Me a Beer" button...I'd push it lol.
  • The Pinterest users I know prefer the Pinsation app to the official Pinterest apps on other platforms, or even their website. That says something for the app to me. Though I don't use Pinterest or Instagram.
  • My biggest issue with pinsation is I can't see my private/secret boards
    Any ideas why this is?
  • Yeah, Pinterest did something funny with how they handle secret boards.  It's not a huge deal, and I will hopefully include it in the next update.
  • Brilliant, thanks for responding!
  • don't buy this rubbish.
  • -1 for not giving reasons why this app is rubbish.
  • -2 for using the word "rubbish"
  • Don't like the original comment, but don't hate on the English ;)
  • Is "rubbish" still used that often? I honestly thought I would've just been stereotyping for assuming English individuals used it a lot. I apologize :'(
  • -3 for being a jerk
  • fools and their money are soon parted, so go right ahead you lot and buy into this cat and mouse game.  You are just allowing yourselves to be profited off of by fly by night devs taking advantage of pent up demand.
  • Apparently you've had problems with other apps? I'm sorry for that, but I would appreciate you giving my app a fair look before you call it rubbish? Sure, I'm asking for $1.49 from people for my weeks of work at night, but I didn't really think that was an unfair price for my time and effort. If you would like, I wouldn't mind giving you access to the beta so I could change your mind?
  • listen dude, you are using a hacked API of which when Instagram catches wind of they are going to ban you out of it.  Then you are going to have 1000s of pissed off paying rubes wanting their money back.  Good luck with that.
  • Stop being a jerk, if you can't appreciate it then atleast keep your mouth shut!!
  • I'm not really one to get in arguments online, so I'm not going to spend any more time thinking about this, but you can probably get your point across without being insulting to my work.
  • I just did, so did Keith.  Instagram will come after this, and they don't even have to change the API, a C&D would be even more damaging.
  • Don't worry about naysayers. It's in their blood to say nay at any chance given.
  • ignore the haters! looks like another great wp8 app.
     
    i don't use instragram but if you're taking/needing beta users i have a candidate who would provide good feedback without hate. she's an educated, mature female who uses IG regularly with a 920.
  • i would love to beta test for this app!
  • If you need beta users, let me know. I'll stay pay for the $1.49 for the official insdagram app. I use the social networks and need to get using instagram for my fans, and I feel left behind compared to other people who have similar fans but can constantly post on instagram. So, the sooner the better for me.
  • That's called capitalism
  • Oh noes! I'm gonna spend $1.49 on an app! I'm getting ripped off! I won't be able to feed or cloth my kids! I'll never be able to retire!!! Seriously... it's $1.49... who the hell cares about $1.49. I don't even use Instagram but I'll probably buy it just to check it out. Repeat after me.. it's $1.49. Mobile apps have turned people into little babies when it comes to spending a buck or two... It's probably the same ones who don't mind spending $7 or whatever on Starbucks mud.
  • I agree that mobile "marketplace" is convenient, however it has caused devs headache considering pricing. Back in the olden days, you had to go to a real physical store, they had walls, and even people who worked there. You would give them 20-50-100 dollars for these apps ( palm, old window mobile...) I remember walking up hill both ways in 10 feet of snow to get to this store. The thing is, devs spend time in these apps even paying for servers to run these apps. 1.50 is cheap. And yes I know more people could potentially purchase, so the price is relative. However with 100000's of apps in a diluted marketplace that has useless filtered. Makes it hard to get your app to the very top of the category. My 2 cents.
  • A fool with a mouth who doesn't know when to close it.
  • I will glady pay the small price of $1.49 if it makes it to market, as long as it does the one thing none of the other apps do...Give me my notifications. If it does that, cheap price of under $2 is fine with me. We need to support developers who try to give us what we want.
  • I don't actually use Instagram, I just wrote the app, so I'm interested in what notifications you want to receive? Likes and Comments? Is a thirty minute interval often enough?
  •  
    Yup, likes and comments. If it at least has it on my photos thats good enough. Ideally it would notify my if I am tagged in someone else’s post. There are many times certain Instagram accounts will post my car or other things and friends tag me in the post to let me know they posted it. Instagram on my ipad notifies me of these. 
  • There's a reason other apps don't do this, and it's because there's no real API for this.  Instagram just serves up an HTML page with your notifications(once you're authenticated).  They are using the apple push and android push notification system to serve up notifications.  It's definitely a feature I want to implement.  Can I make a version 1.1 goal?
  • haha I could live with that.
    Thanks for taking feedback, and hope it hits the market soon!
  • Also, Im fine with it not being a push notification. I actually turned that off on the Ipad. But once I open the app it lets me know if there are new likes/comments in the activity tab
  • Sir, I respect you!
  • It would be great to have a notifications page as well for likes, comments, and mentions. Keep up the great work!
  • I am planning on adding Unification support at some point.
  • That's excellent news, I bet LiquidDaffodil was thrilled of this news! :)
  • Seriously... how many more 3rd party versions are going to be released before the real deal rolls out? ItDAgram? Really?
     
  • I thinks it's a clever name lol
  • Sorry if you don't like the name...my daughter can't pronounce Instagram, she says Itsdagram, so that's what it became.
  • I think the name is genius, quite frankly.
  • That's clever. I, as well take things my son says or our nicknames and integrate it into my apps.
  • I dont have any problem with the name. It's just that there have been so many variations released meanwhile Instagram seemingly is dragging their heels on releasing their own app. Great for you obviously but just shows if all these other apps are rolling out, that they could have long ago yet still have nothing to show for it.
  • Fool me once...
  • Why would anyone put in the time to make this app when the real thing is right around the corner? makes no sense
  • Well, for a number of reasons.
    1. When I started, it was just a rumor that there was an official app coming. As far as I know, it's still just a rumor.
    2. I enjoy writing apps and reverse engineering API's. So this was fun for me.
    3. I could use a little extra income.
    4. My wife and sister-in-law have been pestering me to do this.
    5. I'm tired of "Instagram not being available on Windows Phone" being an issue preventing people from switching.
  • @DanielGary, you sir are a saint lol. I will GLADLY and HAPPILY support your application as I did for Ventasoft and Instagraph. I'm like you, I don't use Instagram, but I respect and appreciate good developers. Thank you, sir.
  • You sir just sold me your app. The fact that you enjoy making apps and have fun doing it gives me confidence that what you are giving the users will be fantastic. Thanks!
  • Great answer, I wish you the best of luck!
  • Glad you're doing this, thanks!
  • Hey, people like you are what our platform needs. Do you have any plans for Windows Phone 7? Please, say you do.
  • My sister-in-law has an HTC Titan.
  • #4 would be reason enough for me sir. Not an Instagram user, but best of luck, love WPCentral esp when devs chime in on comments.
  • I don't need instagram or anything about it, but I will support your app because I like your reasons.
  • Obviously not a developer, I can think of many reasons as well. Experience, community recognition, fun to name a few
  • im wondering what do people see this THING?? first facebook, now this. what's next???
  • If you figure that out, you'll be richer than all the rest of us commenters combined.
  • Good one, Jonnie!
  • I don't like the idea of paying for this app for a few reasons:
    First, it's building off of another company's work, so that in and of itself lends itself to be shut down.  If it stops working, do I get a refund?
    Second, it's free on other platforms.
    Third, it's likely to be free if an official app ever comes here.
     
    Keeping my original comments for posterity, but I should have read other comments first.  Apparently it's a pretty safe assumption they will update and keep on trucking if the API changes.  As to the other stuff, I understand official apps are different from the little guys, and with my first objection being overcome, I would likely pay for this app. 
  • I know you've updated your post, but I just want to say that you can make the exact same arguments, every one of them, against MetroTube or MyTube. Third party devs can move faster, offer more options, customize the look, etc. Look at 4th and Mayor (though it's free, but he works for Microsoft and takes donations). It does the same thing as Foursquare but (1) looks way better (2) performs better (3) is updated with new features more frequently. 
  • +1
  • Speaking of. Dan, I don't use four square, but back when you guys got a demo of the new app, it looked great. Any news on that?
  • No news, unfortunately. But Nokia is directly involved and there is that May 14th date around the corner, so... That's just a hunch though, I honestly have no direct info on when that is coming out. That's my honest guess though.
  • Windows phone people sure do heart Instagram huh? I think you should have the app by now so I can see all the yummy food you are eating also :3
  • Us Windows Phone users eat great looking food too, you'll see, THEY'LL ALL SEE! Muhuhahahahahaha.....
  • Lol! I'll cook enough 4 everyone!
  • Oh goodie goodie
  • Give it to me now haha, I am always willing to support developers who work hard for it.
    I want itsdagram haha
  • One guy did what a billion dollar company could not. Shows you that it's really not about the money folks.
  • Instagram doesn't actually make any money.  They never figured out that part of the business.
     
  • Holy lol if you honestly believe they aren't making money out of this. BTW, I have some bridges to sell ya...
  • The more the merrier, IMO
  • This app should be collaborating with fotor, as fotor offers awesome filters!
  • Agreed. Fotor has become my "pre-Instagraph upload" app of choice.
  • When can i get it?
  • Even with the threat of Instagram changing the API, I will still be buying this to show my support for developers who care. 
  • What is Instagram? Do I need it? Probably not. This issue is getting far too much attention.
  • I initially thought that its a typo ^.^ 
  • BTW who want SNAPCHAT?
  • It's next on my list...I haven't looked to see how feasible it is, so no promises.
  • Thx for The feedback ;)
  • It's feasible apart from a little bit of encryption you've got to handle, had a look myself ;)
  • Good to know :)
  • In fact get in touch if you want any contributors to a SnapChat project, be happy to talk about that
  • Is SnapChat bigger than Vine?
  • What about original adopters with WP7? :(
  • My sister-in-law has an HTC Titan...
  • Thanks for the fast reply, man. I'm putting my faith in you.
  • Wowwww! Btw I like the baby blue shell in the video!
  • Heh, me too! Literally forgot I had ordered it and found it last night. Slapped it on the yellow and was like...ya!
  • Ugh! Quit it! Just make the next Instagram article about the official Instagram app! I keep getting excited, but then my heart drops when it's not the real deal. :'/
  • what bout the rumor? instagram and 14 may?
  • Plausible but honestly, nothing solid. My worry, if true, that would likely mean it's a Nokia exclusive...as Nokia events =! Microsoft Windows Phone events, generally speaking.
  • I have the instagraph but if this gives me unlimited uploads you might get my money
  • I'm not a big Instagram user, but I'm happy to see a quality app being developed by a 3rd party. Also, I'm thrilled to see the developer himself commenting on this post. Your dedication is admirable!
  • I really like the design, the colors of the iOS/Android Instagram apps in Metro UI style.
    Also first seen a transparent 'action bar' (don't know the name) below (I've my Lumia 620 just a month, don't know a lot of apps). EDIT: I just saw it also in Metrotube, but never noticed it because of the black background.
    Wouldn't be a surprise if Instagram would take over this app, because of the design. They only have to give access to there servers, add the filter system and make a notifications page and it's an official app.
  • Thanks for this.  I've spent quite a while making it as appealing as possible and it's nice to get some positive feedback from it.
  • I agree, fantastic work! And the most beautiful Instagram app out there! Even looks better than the official! Although add a filter/notifications option and it's perfect!!
  • I love my community.
  • no filter you say no worries #nofilter
  • Don't forget wp7.
  • By the way, Daniel, how do you set tags in the picture ?
  • Ergonomics wlll get huge, One-click point and shoot and publish to multiple sources from apps that blow away Instas filters. ProShot started integrating this approach
     
    The risk of the API changing is  a nuisance but a compromise given the low cost of apps. Depending on the model the developer might end up  working for Instagram if its  a good app.
     
    As far as official apps go not all are better. If you can  imagine one where we see increased consolidation between players to create simple, feature rich ergonomic apps, indie developers can run light years ahead of official apps. How about something like Proshot  with integrated search between Fiickr, Tumblr and Instagram as well as several new upload options including seamless point and click and  publish to Twitter, Facebook, Fiickr, Tumblr and Instagram at once?
     
    Some companies will insist on official apps. Others will do both. Harness the developer community and see what comes of it. The MS developer community is just starting to get on board.
     
     
     
  • hey daniel, i know you busy with this new app but could you please find some time to fix Pinsation? ): i rly love it BUT the constant crashes makes it almost unusable >.< it's rly annoying and i hope you can fix it soon, so we can truly enjoy your beautiful full-featured Pinterest app!
    'till then, i'm not really using it but it's sitting there waiting patiently for the day this issue will be fixed and i can fully enjoy it :D
  • I was dreading this coming up here... :)
     
    You have my word, as soon as I can get Itsdagram wrapped up and submitted, I will fix that problem.  Quick question...the problem arises from how I implemented the pinch to zoom feature and I have debated just removing that feature.  Would that work for you or would you miss pinch to zoom?
  • well actually i don't use pinch to zoom so i wouldn't miss it :D
  • I'm going to remove it from the app and that will get everyone off of my back for a bit hopefully :)
  • So, the war against Instagram continues...
  • Kudos to the developer. You have my support. :)
  • I don't use Instagram, but I may just purchase this app for solidarity purposes.  Thank you Daniel G.
     
    Oh and Daniel R. Are you sure you want everyone to know when & where you're having dinner tonight?
  • Heh, that's a recommendation, not a booked table ;) Only place I'm going tonight is the gym ;)
  • Nice! I was going to comment mostly about how FoodSpotting bought OpenTable, but you have the two apps side by side. Or maybe not "but" but rather "and" ... guess they really are two apps in a pod. Or rather, OpenTable bought FoodSpotting. My bad!
  • I hope this app will be available soon for wp7.8.
  • i like this one way more than instagraph.the ui was nice.thats the main reason why i changed to windows phone..because i love its modern metro ui.
  • It's cool to think of :D You did make best Instagram Client before the rich owners of it :D And you Are just a man :D
  • Maybe Nokia should start a 2DanwithLuv lens! :) ♡
  • If now I had few extra bucks I would ditch Windows Phone. I always found something I didn't like in ios and Android, but Apple or Google never did anything close to the Microsoft favourite game of humiliating, flouting  and mocking the paying customers. Microsoft, I must say you did it. I now ready to ditch you both in desktop and mobile. Are you shit!
  • This was certainly not my intention when I made the app...you do know Microsoft has nothing to do with this and this isn't an official app?
  • {Vladimir} wtf? Did I just have a stroke? Is this real life?
  • He is a Troll Guys, Do not feed the Troll !!
  • Yeah, can't you see the sign? *Points to something* *Sign Reads* "Do Not Feed The Troll, For He Will Follow You"
  • Such a dedicated developer ! I appreciate your effort, and i will buy this app if it's available for 7.8 btw in future if i buy a wp8, im gonna purchase itsdagram too :))
  • I would definitely be down to give it a shot. It looks gorgeous. J ca t stand when apps are simply ported from other OS because we have so much more fluidity available on WP and not enough "official" apps make use of it.
  • Will tagging friends and hash tags be supported while uploading a picture? Instagraph doesn't show hash tags once it's uploaded
  • Might as well disable every app for 7.8 -_- is it really that hard to make an app available on 7.x?
  • Well, no, but there are some trade-offs.
     
    I could build an app that targets Windows Phone 7.x and it would run in 8.x just fine.  However, I lose some things:
     
    Full screen apps.  The apps are surrounded by black bars at the top and bottom on 720P screens.
    Instant loading.  7.x apps have to show a splash screen.  8.x apps start instantly.
     
    The good news is I built the API client as a portable class library that can be used in 7.x and 8.x apps.  And I can copy and paste most of the XAML.  7.x support is coming in the future.
  • Much appreciated, there are just things that developers understand that we don't. I'll just need to upgrade, money is scarce
  • Sweet! 7.8 support would be greatly appreciated! Thank you. Are there any plans to integrate a filter option? I have no idea what that process would entail.
  • i dont use instagram but i do use the pinsation app which to me is the best in the store right now. i hope you find time to address the issue with the intermittent crashes
  • Thanks for this, and as I replied earlier, as soon as I wrap up this app, I promise to solve the crashes on Pinsation.
  • i have a suggestion...would it be possible to make the repinning screen (title/boards selection) as a pop-up? the current way is nice but i think a pop-up would be easier and faster, wouldn't need to leave the picture page...if you want an example of what i mean, just look at Pinterest Mobile and repin a pic...smth like that but adapted to your app and metro xD
  • Sure, I know what you mean.  It's absolutely possible.  At some point I'm going to have to commit to a rewrite for the move to Windows Phone 8.  At this time, I'm not actively adding support to Pinsation as it's in maintenance mode, but when I get ready to update it to WP8, I will definitely do this.
  • great *-* i will patiently wait and keep supporting Pinsation, just the future crashes fix already makes me happy *-* edit: tyvm btw, you rly care about WP and about giving us the best exprience possible! I don't use Instagram but i might buy it to support you and give Insta a try :D
  • I honestly didn't plan on purchasing this app until I read most of the developers comments. So whenever it comes to WP7 I'll be more than happy to break the bank and pay $1.49. Even willing to beta test it if you need it. I also made a vow to myself to not even use the "official" instagram app if it ever is released on WP (i'll download it, won't use it) because I'd rather support developers who care about the platform...but that's just me
  • Thank you Daniel Gary for spending your time and effort on the windows phone platform, nice to see you active in the comment section :)
  • "However, Instagram is kind of a prickly company,"
    isn't google so
  • @Daniel Gary, really great work and I will be supporting you for sure but just wanted to mention something: most folks I know avoided Instagraph because it was a pay app. I know this might sound disrespectful to the developers working hard on bringing us the good but the the thing is, some people don't have credit cards (and MS not support MS Points is sill silly) and others get pissy when things are paid on WP and free on other platforms.
     
    tl;dr will you offer it for free sometime in the future?
     
     
  • I will most likely do something like offer it free for a day or something at some point.  Possibly on day one...
  • That's awesome. I will skip the offer and buy it to support you. :)
     
    And watching the video, it says Aviary still doesn't support WP8 lol this is a bigger issue IMO than no Instagram.
  • Hopefully they change the name. Anytime I hear "da" for the word the, makes me cringe.
  • Yeah, I'm usually the same way, but my daughter couldn't say Instagram, she said Itsdagram, so that's what it became...
  • Shouldn't bother you then. Da is clearly not being used for the word the. Problem solved.
  • I love stuff like this! Reminds me of the awesome webOS dev community.
  • @Danielgary. Full support. Thank you for all your hard work.
  • Funny how me and my friend were talking about our windows phone and telling her about the Facebook beta app and then her friend was like, does that have instagram?.. Oh instagram.. @danielgary thank you for your hard work to bring your app to the windows phone community!
  • The icon for the app isn't the greatest but the rest is!
  • so its NOT fully featured then because it has no filters. What is with all the half-assed attempts at an instagram app? Just add some filters! Its not even that hard to do, just make 6 or 7 of your own and make this a one-stop app. is it c#? Look up pixel manipulation and hell, devs,  I'll even send you a couple of my algorithms from my windows 8 app to save you the effort! (its javascript so it will need some conversion to C# but the forumla is sound). Just give us one app that can do it all; thats how you score a win.
  • WILL THIS BE AVAILABLE TO wp7.5 USERS, CAUSE PPL ARENT REALLY DOING MUCH FOR wp7.5
  • time to change to wp 8 :)
  • Plz dont ignore wp7... bring this also for wp 7. we are waiting..
  • time to change to wp 8 :)
  • I want to upgrade.. but u know i dont have money..nd i love my wp7 from day one... nd beside that microsoft also support wp7 and wp8 till next year.. and there are also lots of wp7 users. so plz dont ignore us..
  • sell your WP7 device and pay a small difference for a Lumia 521 :] 
  • Itsdagram sounds amazing. Its not as though " this app became gay.....
     
     
  • I am still waiting for myspace or compuserve app. I am so dissapointed it is not yet on windows phone!
  • .........
  • I don't use Instagram or care about it but I'll buy to support the developer for bringing us functional apps that aren't available to the platform. This is the kind of developer we should support as they make the platform better!
     
    Thanks Daniel.
     
    Btw Itsdagram is a great name. 
  • Can't find the app please help me someone
  • Not released yet, he mentions expected release date window in article.
  • Reverse engineer process is quite easy for a developer. A friend of mine made ​​a app like this for wp7 four months ago and it has not passed Microsoft certification. Anyway good luck man!
  • Geez another copycat instagram. Just get the official instagram. Once we ever get it all these copycats will be useless
  • As long as the app has some kind of voice control, live tile/push notifications support, and lens capability (like Bing Vision, Blink, Smart Shoot, etc.), then it is worth the $$. WP8 apps should be optimized for WP8 integration.
  • WHY ARE ALL THE CLIENTS ONLY COMING OUT FOR WP8?! Am I the only one seeing this? I have a WP7 and want instagram also. Are they just cutting their loses with apps dealing with WP7?! If so im going to be really pissed. I don't mind where they are going its more how they are going about it that angers me. I was told this phone was gonna be the new biggest thing. And I almost feel as though Microsoft has abandoned WP7.
  • please don't forget the wp7 users
  • Kudos to the developer for doing this! Much appreciated. I like the design, its clean, simple and Metro, unlike others which are overly designed. I hope this app is also available in default share option.
  •  
  • Daniel (Gary), Any thoughts on this - https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=5646009? Will it affect you or the API?
    Will it have a place in the future of Itsdagram? Thanks,
    Jason
  • I might have been interested in this, if I did not already pay 2.50 for Instagraph. I'm not paying for two instagram apps, especially since this one does not have any filters at all. The one minute I have to wait with Instagraph for photos to upload is not the biggest deal at the moment, and who knows if this app will get approved or even work. What was that early adapter reward for Instagraph? Never saw it or heard about it after it's first mention.... This would decrease my current number of instagram related apps from 3 down to 2. Plus Fhotoroom. I'm happy to see developers creating multiple instagram apps and developers on WP period since I'd like WP sto stick around.
  • When will this app be available for 7.8 devices :S
  • @DanielGary, please why are you forgetting about WP 7.8 users? I mean do we have rights too? We actually bought our phones and fought for Instagram through #2InstaWithLove much before WP 8 was out? So do we deserve to be left out like this holding a box of useless yet pricy crap in our hands? Not all of us can afford a new phone just because it's a little bit better and because it contains more apps. I understand that the entire idea is to force people to spend more money and buy WP8 devices but still it's not fair. iPhone 4 users still have the same apps as iPhone 5 users. 
    WP7 also needs Instagram, Pinterest, Tumblr, Temple Run etc. Isn't it enough that by using Windows OS we are deprived of many cool apps other OS offer? Obviously not, now we have to be discriminated even within the area of Windows. I think Windows developpers shoud be thankful to all users who opted out for their devices instead of the much better working and up to date modern ones by showing some support to everyone in this hard time...
  • Will this app be available on WP7.
  • Emoji?!?!?
  • Awesome. I've been using Instagraph, and though it's been working fine, with shorter queue times than I expected, it's nice to see more options coming, particularly ones that act as an all in one solution rather needing a separate one to upload and another to comment etc
  •    
    @Danielgray
    When is it available, yet this week?
    And one more question..Well u get the API so why not the filter?
     
    Thanks :)  
  • Wish it was free because it would t be a win, the original one is free
  • WHEN IS IT COMING OUT???????
  • No filters? Bah, I thought this app was perfect. Almost...