Instagram for iPad Is Finally in the Works—Here’s What to Expect

After years of user requests and persistent speculation, Instagram is finally getting a native iPad app-or at least, that's what new reports strongly suggest. According to Bloomberg's Mark Gurman and a follow-up report by 9to5Mac, Meta is now actively developing and testing an iPad-optimized version of Instagram, with employees at Meta's campus already using a pre-release build internally.

This comes just weeks after Meta launched WhatsApp for iPad, seemingly indicating a renewed effort to adapt its core apps to larger-screen Apple devices. And for iPad users who've been stuck with a scaled-up iPhone version of Instagram for years, this is long overdue.

From Zoomed-in UI to Native Support

At present, Instagram on the iPad is essentially the iPhone app in disguise. While functional, the stretched interface, lack of multitasking support, and awkward scaling have long made the experience feel like an afterthought. That may finally change.

The new app is reportedly designed specifically for iPadOS, featuring a more refined layout, full-screen support, and better integration with Apple's multitasking tools like Split View. This means users will likely be able to scroll through their feed while messaging or browsing Safari side-by-side-something the current app simply doesn't support.

Reels, Layouts, and Larger Screens

One of the biggest expected upgrades will be in the Reels and video browsing experience. The iPad's larger display could bring a more immersive, almost cinematic feel to Reels, making video content easier to engage with for longer sessions.

Design-wise, the app is rumored to include layout modes and interface elements exclusive to the iPad, potentially offering users more control over how they interact with content. There's also talk of enhanced video playback, smoother scrolling, and improved scaling for square and portrait-oriented posts-something Meta has previously hesitated to address.

Why Now?

So, what changed after all this time?

Gurman suggests that Meta's earlier reluctance came down to technical limitations and design concerns, including how Instagram's square photos and lower-resolution images would translate to larger screens. But it seems the tech has now caught up, and more importantly, user demand hasn't gone away.

Another possible motivator: platform risk. With TikTok facing ongoing scrutiny and regulatory pressure in the U.S., Meta might see iPad expansion as a strategic way to increase Instagram engagement across platforms.

When Can You Expect It?

Gurman says the app is in active internal testing and could launch "later this year" if development stays on track. While Meta hasn't officially confirmed a timeline, the fact that employees are already using the app internally is a good sign that the rollout isn't too far off.

Via