TL;DR
Instagram has finally released its first-ever iPad app globally. The app opens directly to the Reels feed, makes use of the bigger screen with a split-view layout for DMs, and gives tablet users a much-awaited official experience. An Android tablet version is also on the way.
After years of requests, Instagram has finally launched its official iPad app – now available for users across the globe.
The new iPad app keeps a layout similar to Instagram’s desktop version but makes better use of the larger screen. By default, the app opens in the Reels tab, clearly pushing Meta’s short-form video format, much like TikTok. Other options, including Stories, Explore, and the Following feed, remain easily accessible from the sidebar.
Stories appear at the top as usual, and jumping into the feed lets you browse posts and reels from people you follow. The direct messages (DMs) section also benefits from the larger screen, showing both the conversation list and chats side by side — similar to how Messenger and WhatsApp appear on tablets.
Instagram had been reported to be working on an iPad app earlier this year, likely accelerated by the uncertain prospects of TikTok in the US. Now, the app is officially here and can be downloaded for free from the App Store on iPad.
Interestingly, Instagram also teased that a dedicated Android tablet app is “coming soon”, marking another big step for Meta in tailoring its platforms for larger devices.