After much anticipation and numerous requests from users, the popular social media platform has finally introduced an application specifically designed for iPad. This exciting development means that users can now enjoy a more tailored experience on their larger screens, moving away from the less-than-ideal iPhone app or the web version.
The newly launched app opens directly to the Reels section, providing an engaging way to view short videos in a more immersive format. This feature enhances the overall user experience, making it easier to scroll through content.
In terms of functionality, the iPad app closely mirrors its mobile counterpart, offering a comprehensive range of features for content consumption. Users can find Stories conveniently located at the top of the interface, while a sidebar on the left provides quick access to various options, including the following feed, direct messages, search, explore, and notifications.
Instagram’s iPad feed presents three distinct viewing options: “All” for recommended posts and reels from followed accounts, “Friends” for content shared by mutual connections, and “Latest” for a chronological view of posts and reels. Users also have the flexibility to customize the order of these feeds according to their preferences.
Previously, accessing Instagram on an iPad meant using a scaled-up version of the iPhone app, which was not visually appealing. The company has now revamped the interface to enhance usability on larger screens. For example, while watching a reel, users can view comments alongside the video, and in the messages section, they can engage in a specific conversation while keeping an eye on all active chats on the left.
Despite being around for nearly 15 years, the development of an iPad app was not prioritized until now. The head of Instagram, Adam Mosseri, has previously stated that the company was not in a rush to create an iPad version. However, recent reports indicated that the app was finally in the works.
This long-awaited release also highlights the emergence of third-party applications that aimed to enhance the Instagram experience for iPad users in the past.
The new Instagram app is compatible with all iPads running iOS 15.1 or later, making it accessible to a wide range of users.