Instagram for iPad has officially launched, introducing an optimized experience tailored for the larger screen of the iPad. Announced in a blog post on Wednesday, September 3, the app prioritizes Reels, Instagram's popular short video format, catering to users who prefer “lean back entertainment” on bigger devices.
The new Instagram app for iPad simplifies user access to essential features, including Stories and messaging. One of the standout additions is the “Following” tab, which allows users to customize how they view content from accounts they follow. This new layout enhances navigation by displaying tabs for messages and notifications more prominently.
Moreover, users can now expand comments while watching Reels, allowing them to engage with the content without compromising the full view of the video. As Instagram states, “It’s the Instagram you love, now with more space to play,” reflecting their commitment to enhancing user experience.
The Instagram for iPad app is now rolling out globally and can be downloaded from the App Store. In addition, the company has announced plans for a tablet design for Android devices, which will be released soon, further extending its reach in the tablet market.
This launch marks Instagram's first dedicated iPad application, a significant development considering that the previous experience relied on a scaled-up version of the iPhone app. Users had long expressed dissatisfaction with blurry visuals and missing features, making this new app a much-anticipated improvement.
As Instagram continues to prioritize Reels, the update comes at a critical time as the platform increasingly competes with TikTok in the short video space. Parent company Meta recently reported that its suite of apps, which includes Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and Messenger, has seen a daily user base of 3.48 billion, representing a 6% year-over-year growth.
In its July 31 earnings report, Meta revealed that new recommendation models have boosted ad conversions by 5% on Instagram. Additionally, improvements in the app's ranking system have resulted in a 6% increase in time spent on the platform. The early implementation of artificial intelligence on Instagram is also proving beneficial, particularly for small merchants seeking product-market fit.
Moreover, in June, Meta announced it is testing AI-generated 3D photos on Instagram, which is part of its long-term strategy to make immersive computing a mainstream experience through the Meta Quest augmented reality/virtual reality headset.
The launch of the new Instagram for iPad marks a pivotal moment for the platform, enhancing user engagement and expanding its capabilities. With a focus on Reels and improved features, Instagram is solidifying its position in the competitive landscape of social media while preparing for future innovations.
