Instagram is embarking on an exciting new experiment in India, testing a Reels-first layout within its mobile application. The Meta-owned social media giant confirmed this week that a select group of users will experience a fresh platform design, where opening the app immediately takes them to the vibrant Reels tab. This innovative layout also strategically positions Stories at the top, offering users seamless access to updates from their friends and followed accounts. Interestingly, this very same design philosophy was introduced earlier this month with the launch of Instagram’s dedicated iPad app.
Why Instagram is Prioritizing Reels
In a recent press release, the platform emphasized the overwhelming popularity of Reels, noting an astounding 4.5 billion daily reshares across all Meta applications. This highlights Reels’ significant role in how users connect and engage, with Instagram DMs identified as a primary channel for sharing these short videos.
This ongoing interface redesign is a clear effort by the company to streamline user access to their most cherished features. Currently being tested with a limited audience, the new layout immerses users directly into a stream of new videos on the Reels tab upon app launch, much like the experience on the iPad app, enabling effortless scrolling through content.
Furthermore, Instagram has confirmed that this updated interface will prominently display Stories—a feature not currently available in the primary Reels viewing experience. This ensures users can quickly catch up on posts from their network. Other notable enhancements in the new layout include single-swipe access to direct messages (DMs) from any screen via the navigation bar, and an enriched ‘Following’ tab with diverse content viewing options.
The revamped ‘Following’ tab introduces an ‘All’ option, showcasing recommended posts and Reels from all followed accounts, alongside a ‘Friends’ option specifically curating recommended content from accounts that also follow the user back. A ‘Latest’ option has also been incorporated, presenting posts and Reels from followed accounts in chronological order.
Additionally, the new layout facilitates smoother navigation across the app with the ability to swipe between all tabs. Instagram expressed enthusiasm for testing this feature in India, citing the country’s vast and culturally rich Reels content that resonates deeply with its global community.
For a visual overview of Instagram’s product innovations and feature updates, you can often find official demonstration videos showcasing these changes.