Technology
Instagram Launches iPad App Featuring Reels to Compete with TikTok
On Wednesday, Instagram unveiled a dedicated application for the iPad, highlighting its short-form video feature, Reels, as a key component of the redesigned interface. This move comes as parent company Meta intensifies its competition with TikTok, aiming to enhance user engagement through a more tailored experience.
The new app addresses persistent user complaints regarding Instagram’s previous iPad experience, which relied on a scaled-up version of the iPhone app. Users often faced blurry visuals and missing features. The redesigned app is now available globally for devices running iPadOS 15.1 and later, and it opens directly to a Reels feed. This approach aligns with Instagram’s strategy of offering what it describes as “lean-back entertainment,” providing a more immersive viewing experience.
Enhanced Features and User Experience
Within the app, Stories are conveniently pinned at the top, and users can access messaging with a single tap. Reels has become increasingly significant, accounting for over 20 percent of the time users spend on Instagram. This focus on Reels underscores Meta’s broader strategy to boost engagement across its platforms amid fierce competition in the short-form video market.
The iPad application introduces a Following tab that offers various viewing options, including recommended posts and content from mutual followers, as well as chronological feeds. Users now have the ability to reorder these feed options to prioritize their preferred content. The interface also supports multitasking layouts, allowing users to view messages and notifications side by side while watching videos. Comments can expand without interrupting playback, enhancing the overall user experience.
The app is available for free on Apple’s App Store, and Instagram has indicated that an optimized version for Android tablets will be released soon. As the battle for dominance in the short-form video space intensifies, Instagram’s new offering aims to attract users looking for a more robust and visually appealing platform.
As Meta continues to innovate its products, the introduction of the iPad app reflects the company’s commitment to adapting to user preferences and maintaining relevance in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. With the growing popularity of platforms like TikTok, Instagram’s strategic enhancements could play a crucial role in retaining and expanding its user base.
Reporting by Kritika Lamba in Bengaluru; Editing by Tasim Zahid, Reuters.
-
Lifestyle2 months agoWinnipeg Celebrates Culinary Creativity During Le Burger Week 2025
-
Health3 months agoMontreal’s Groupe Marcelle Leads Canadian Cosmetic Industry Growth
-
Science3 months agoMicrosoft Confirms U.S. Law Overrules Canadian Data Sovereignty
-
Education2 months agoBrandon University’s Failed $5 Million Project Sparks Oversight Review
-
Science3 months agoTech Innovator Amandipp Singh Transforms Hiring for Disabled
-
Education2 months agoRed River College Launches New Programs to Address Industry Needs
-
Technology2 months agoDragon Ball: Sparking! Zero Launching on Switch and Switch 2 This November
-
Technology3 weeks agoDiscord Faces Serious Security Breach Affecting Millions
-
Technology3 months agoGoogle Pixel 10 Pro Fold Specs Unveiled Ahead of Launch
-
Science2 months agoChina’s Wukong Spacesuit Sets New Standard for AI in Space
-
Education2 months agoAlberta Teachers’ Strike: Potential Impacts on Students and Families
-
Technology3 months agoWorld of Warcraft Players Buzz Over 19-Quest Bee Challenge
-
Business2 months agoRocket Lab Reports Strong Q2 2025 Revenue Growth and Future Plans
-
Technology3 weeks agoHuawei MatePad 12X Redefines Tablet Experience for Professionals
-
Business2 months agoDawson City Residents Rally Around Buy Canadian Movement
-
Business3 months agoNew Estimates Reveal ChatGPT-5 Energy Use Could Soar
-
Technology3 months agoFuture Entertainment Launches DDoD with Gameplay Trailer Showcase
-
Science3 months agoXi Labs Innovates with New AI Operating System Set for 2025 Launch
-
Technology3 months agoInnovative 140W GaN Travel Adapter Combines Power and Convenience
-
Business2 months agoBNA Brewing to Open New Bowling Alley in Downtown Penticton
-
Technology2 months agoGlobal Launch of Ragnarok M: Classic Set for September 3, 2025
-
Technology3 months agoNew IDR01 Smart Ring Offers Advanced Sports Tracking for $169
-
Education2 months agoNew SĆIȺNEW̱ SṮEȽIṮḴEȽ Elementary Opens in Langford for 2025/2026 Year
-
Technology2 months agoArsanesia Unveils Smith’s Chronicles with Steam Page and Trailer
