Instagram officially launches dedicated iPad app

Instagram has officially launched a dedicated app for the iPad, responding to years of user requests for a fully optimised tablet experience. The app became available globally on Wednesday for devices running iPadOS 15.1 or later.

According to an official blog post by Instagram, the new interface has been designed specifically for larger screens, with the short-form video feature Reels placed at the centre of the experience. Upon opening the app, users are immediately shown a feed of Reels, which Instagram describes as part of a 'lean-back entertainment' approach. Stories are pinned at the top of the interface, and messaging is accessible with a single tap.

A new 'Following' tab has been introduced, offering users three distinct viewing options: 'All', which shows recommended posts from accounts they follow; 'Friends', displaying content from mutual followers; and 'Latest', which presents posts in chronological order. Users can personalise their experience by reordering these feed options.

The app supports iPad multitasking features, allowing messages and notifications to be viewed alongside the main feed. Additionally, users can expand comments while watching Reels without interrupting video playback.

Instagram confirmed that an Android tablet version of the app will be released in the future. The iPad app is available as a free download from Apple's App Store.