If you're in a browser with adblockers and you're not signed in, there's not much they can do to monetize you effectively. I assume this is just a means of forcing people who use instagram in the browser to at least admit who they are so they can tie browsing to a known tracking id.
I'm honestly surprised instagram even lets people use the app in any meaningful way on desktop at all.
I'm honestly surprised instagram even lets people use the app in any meaningful way on desktop at all.