Instagram's API allows developers to build applications that interact with Instagram's data, but it comes with strict access controls and limitations. To connect to the API, users must create an Instagram Developer Account, generate an access token, and call the API through platforms like RapidAPI, which supports multiple programming languages for integration. The API enforces OAuth access token scopes to define permissions, requiring apps to submit for review to access more than basic user profile info and media. Instagram also uses a Sandbox mode to test apps before they can go live, limiting content and user displays during the review process. The API supports apps that help individuals share content, assist brands in managing audience interactions, and aid broadcasters in content discovery. Despite some restrictions implemented in 2016 to boost Instagram's native app usage, developers can still access various API endpoints, provided they meet the necessary permissions through proper scope authorization.