Instagram is planning on bringing a new update in the mobile application. According to the social media platform, users will now be shown the Reels feed upon opening the Instagram App. Previously, users, upon opening the Instagram app, were shown the My feed page. This feature has already been rolled out on iPads. Reels-first layout might turn out to be a success for the company since users mostly spend time watching reels.
According to the company, the test does not remove existing features but changes how users reach them. By making Reels and DMs the starting points, Instagram is adjusting its app layout to match current usage patterns, where short-form video and messaging dominate users’ activity.
The company said that it is first testing this new interface with select users, and has not yet provided a rollout schedule for the same.
Reels-first experience
Under this layout, users are taken directly to the Reels section when they open the Instagram app. Instagram Stories remain visible at the top of the feed, making them easy to reach. While direct messages shift into the navigation bar for quicker access. According to the company, the new layout is meant to simplify navigation and push the features most people use, like Reels and DMs, to the front.
Following Tab
The company introduces a new ‘Following’ tab, which essentially lets users customise their feed to view content from accounts they choose.
Navigation
Alongside the Reels-first experience, Instagram is also preparing to simplify global navigation. DMs will soon move to the centre of the navigation bar, while Reels will shift up to the second tab. Users will also be able to swipe between all tabs, making it easier to move between Reels, Stories, the feed, and messaging.
