Instagram has officially launched a dedicated app for iPad—14 years after the platform’s debut on mobile. Let’s dive into what’s new and whether Android tablet users have been left behind.
What’s New with Instagram for iPad?
iPad-Optimized Interface: The app opens directly into Reels, offering a true “lean-back entertainment” mode. Stories remain accessible at the top, and messaging is just one tap away.
Following Tab with Smart Filters: Navigate between feeds with options like All, Friends, and Latest, giving you control over how content appears—personalized or chronological.
Dual-Column Layouts & Comment Expansion: Messages and notifications are displayed side by side—no more screen juggling. Plus, users can expand comments during Reels playback without losing the video view
Global Rollout: Instagram for iPad is now available worldwide on App Store devices running iPadOS 15.1 or later—and it’s free.
What About Android Tablet Users?
At launch, there’s no Android tablet version available. But Instagram has confirmed one is on its way—details on timing remain vague.
Android tablet users currently rely on a stretched-out phone app that doesn’t utilize the larger screen well. The iPad version, by contrast, offers a completely reimagined layout, optimized for bigger displays.
So yes—Android tablets got the short end of the stick this time. Many users feel overlooked, especially given Android’s dominant share of the global tablet market.
Summary Table
| Feature | iPad App | Android Tablet Version |
|---|---|---|
| Layout | Native, multi-column, optimized | Scaled-up phone app |
| Interface | Reels-first, side-by-side messaging | Not optimized |
| Availability | Available now (iPadOS 15.1+) | Confirmed “coming soon” |
Final Thoughts
The new iPad app marks a major moment—Instagram adapting to larger screens with purpose-built features like multi-column layout, smarter feed filtering, and immersive Reels playback.
Android tablet users may feel snubbed now, but the promise of a native app offers hope. In the meantime, the iPad experience is a breath of fresh air for users long forced to use the cramped, scaled-up phone interface.
