Instagram Finally developing Dedicated iPad App: A Sign of the Times?
By Archyde News Team | Published April 9, 2025
After years of user requests and what many consider a glaring omission, Meta, the parent company of Instagram, is reportedly developing a native Instagram app for the iPad. This move, according to sources, may be influenced by the potential ban of TikTok in the United States.
The iPad App: A Long-Awaited Arrival
For years, iPad users have lamented the absence of a dedicated Instagram app. The experience of using Instagram on an iPad has been relegated to either a blown-up version of the iPhone app or the less-than-ideal web interface. The larger screen of the iPad, many argue, is perfectly suited for the visually rich content that defines Instagram.
The lack of an iPad app has always been a puzzle for users. As one frustrated iPad owner in chicago, Illinois, remarked, “ItS like they’re ignoring a huge segment of their user base. My iPad is my go-to device for browsing, and the Instagram experience is just subpar compared to my phone.”
Adding to the confusion, Instagram head Adam Mosseri once said
that the group of people who want an Instagram app for the iPad isn’t large enough, despite admitting that the company gets asked about it “a lot.” This statement, made in early 2022, has been a source of continued bewilderment for the instagram community.
Why Now? The TikTok Factor
So, why the sudden change of heart? The rumored reason behind this growth is the potential ban of TikTok in the United States. With TikTok facing increasing regulatory pressure, Meta may be positioning Instagram to capture a larger share of the short-form video market. An optimized iPad app could be a key component of this strategy,offering a more engaging experience for users who prefer larger screens.
The potential TikTok ban has been a hot topic in Washington, D.C., with concerns raised about data security and potential Chinese government influence. As reported by various news outlets,several bills have been introduced in Congress that aim to restrict or ban TikTok’s operations in the U.S.
If TikTok were to disappear from the U.S. market, Instagram, along with other platforms like YouTube Shorts and Snapchat, would be vying to fill the void. A polished iPad app could give Instagram a competitive edge, particularly among users who create and consume content on tablets.
The Current State of Instagram on iPad: A Frustrating Experience
Currently, iPad users have limited options when it comes to accessing Instagram. The web app, while functional, lacks many of the features and polish of the native mobile app. The posts,for example,appear small and lack the option to enlarge them. While you can use the scaled-up iPhone app on an iPad, but it is indeed not optimized for the larger screen, resulting in a pixelated and less immersive experience.
Here’s a quick overview of the available options and their drawbacks:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone App (Scaled Up) | Familiar interface | Pixelated, not optimized for iPad screen |
| Web App | Accessible on any device | Limited features, clunky interface, small posts |
| Third-Party Apps | Some offer unique features | Security risks, often unreliable, violate Instagram’s terms of service |
What to Expect from the New iPad App
Details about the features and design of the upcoming Instagram iPad app are scarce. However, users are hoping for a fully optimized experience that takes advantage of the iPad’s larger display and unique capabilities. This could include:
- A multi-pane interface that allows users to view multiple feeds or profiles concurrently.
- Improved support for iPad’s multitasking features, such as Split View and Slide Over.
- Enhanced photo and video editing tools.
- integration with Apple Pencil for drawing and annotations.
- A more immersive viewing experience for Instagram Stories and Reels.
Beyond the App: Instagram’s evolving Strategy
The development of an iPad app is just one piece of Instagram’s broader strategy to adapt to the changing social media landscape. In recent years, the platform has faced increased competition from TikTok, Snapchat, and other emerging platforms.
To stay relevant, Instagram has been experimenting with new features and formats, including:
- Reels: Short-form video content similar to TikTok.
- Shopping: Integration with e-commerce platforms to allow users to buy products directly from Instagram.
- content Notes: A feature that allowed creators to add context or disclaimers to their posts (though this feature was recently discontinued).
It remains to be seen whether the iPad app will be a significant factor in Instagram’s long-term success. Though, it’s a welcome development for iPad users who have long felt neglected by the platform.
The User Perspective: Hope and Skepticism
News of the iPad app has been met with cautious optimism from Instagram users. While many are excited about the prospect of a native app, some are skeptical about Meta’s motives and the quality of the final product.
“I’ll believe it when I see it,” said Sarah Miller, a photographer from Los Angeles, California. “Instagram has ignored iPad users for so long that it’s hard to get my hopes up. But if they actually deliver a good app, it would be a game-changer for my workflow.”
Others are concerned that the iPad app will be buggy or poorly designed, as has been the case with some of Meta’s other apps.”I just hope they don’t rush it out the door,” said David Chen, a student from New York City. “I’d rather wait a little longer for a polished product than get stuck with another half-baked app.”
Conclusion: A Step in the Right Direction
The development of an Instagram iPad app is a welcome sign that Meta is finally listening to it’s users and taking the iPad platform seriously. While the motivations behind this move may be complex, the end result should be a better Instagram experience for millions of iPad owners in the United States and around the world.
As the potential tiktok ban looms, Instagram is making strategic moves to solidify its position in the social media landscape. The iPad app could be an crucial tool in this effort, providing users with a more engaging and immersive way to connect with the platform.
