Instagram Finally Arrives on iPad With Full App Experience

Instagram has officially rolled out its long-awaited iPad app, giving users a platform designed for larger screens after more than a decade of demand.

For years, iPad owners relied on either the web version of Instagram or an enlarged iPhone app, both of which lacked a proper layout. Now, with the launch of a native iPad app, users can access all core features in a more refined design.

The new version opens directly to Reels, making video browsing central to the experience. Navigation is placed on a left-hand sidebar, giving easy access to Search, Messages, Explore, Following, and Notifications. Stories remain positioned at the top of the interface.

Instagram has also added three feed options: All combines recommended posts with followed accounts, Friends shows content from mutual followers, while Latest delivers a chronological feed. Users can customize the tab arrangement according to their preferences.

The redesign optimizes multi-tasking too. For instance, comments appear neatly on the right-hand side while viewing Reels, and in the Messages section, active chats stay visible even as new conversations open.

The move comes after reports in early 2025 confirmed development of an iPad version. The delay had encouraged third-party apps like Retro to fill the gap.