Instagram finally launches a native iPad app — redesigned for tablet

After 15 years, Instagram has released a native iPad app optimized for the tablet experience. The new app takes advantage of the larger screen with a redesigned layout and some notable changes to how content is viewed and navigated.

Key features

• Opens directly into a Reels feed by default.
• “Latest” chronological feed option (shows recent posts & Reels first), alongside All/Recommended and Friends tabs.
• Comments appear alongside Reels for easier engagement while watching videos.
• DMs use a split layout showing inbox and chat side-by-side, similar to Messenger’s web layout.
• Stories, Search, Explore and notifications are optimized for the tablet UI.

Context

This is notable because Instagram didn’t prioritize an iPad app until now — two years ago Adam Mosseri said the iPad audience wasn’t large enough to fast-track a native app. The company has now redesigned the interface to suit iPad use and multitasking.

Sources

• TechCrunch — Instagram finally launches an iPad app
• MacRumors — Instagram comes to iPad
• 9to5Mac — Official iPad app available

Will you switch to the new app or keep using the scaled iPhone version / web client? Share your experience in the comments below.