For years now, iPad enthusiasts have been asking a burning question: why hasn’t Instagram rolled out a dedicated app for tablets? As Instagram blossomed into one of the largest social networks globally, it inexplicably overlooked Apple’s tablets, leaving users to make do with a web version or a stretched-out iPhone app. But the wait is finally over—Instagram has officially introduced its iPad app!
This exciting new app places Reels front and center. The moment you launch it, you’re greeted by a vibrant Reels interface, clearly reflecting Instagram’s focus on short videos as its primary growth driver. Above that, you can easily access Stories, and messaging is just a tap away. It’s evident that Meta envisions the iPad as a platform for “lean-back” entertainment, much like enjoying YouTube on a larger screen.
However, this launch begs the question: why did it take so long? Instagram burst onto the scene in 2010, the same year as the first iPad. Since then, we’ve seen Instagram evolve with features like web access, various redesigns, shopping tabs, and a TikTok-inspired Reels push. Yet, a proper iPad app was always conspicuously missing. Some speculate that Meta aimed to keep users glued to their phones, where ad engagement tends to be higher. Others believe that building a tablet version simply wasn’t a priority as Instagram catered to a younger, mobile-centric audience.
But perhaps that delay is inconsequential now. The demand has always existed, and the new iPad version arrives just as users are spending more time indulging in binge-worthy short videos. Larger screens typically lead to longer viewing sessions, which is great news for both creators and advertisers. Plus, the introduction of the new Following tab, which allows users to view posts in chronological order, shows that Instagram is finally listening to user feedback after years of criticism regarding its algorithm-driven feed.
Looking to the future, this move could signal a shift in Meta’s overarching strategy. With a robust iPad app now in place, Instagram has the potential to expand into productivity features, enhanced creative tools, or even live shopping experiences that take full advantage of larger displays. The company has also confirmed that a tablet-optimized version for Android is on the horizon, which could introduce Instagram to millions of users on devices like the Samsung Galaxy Tab series.
For now, it feels like Instagram is finally catching up to a demand that users have had for over a decade. The real question is: will this transformation alter how people engage with Instagram, or is it simply too late for a substantial impact? Regardless, iPad owners can now relish the Instagram experience they’ve been longing for!
