Instagram was created by Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger. Originally, Kevin Systrom developed an app called Burbn, which included features like check-ins and photo sharing. He then teamed up with Mike Krieger to refine this idea, focusing specifically on photo sharing and creating Instagram. The app was launched in October 2010 and quickly gained popularity. Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger co-founded Instagram, with both contributing to its initial development and growth.