With the potential TikTok ban being postponed yet again, Instagram users may finally see the arrival of something they’ve been dreaming of since 2010—a dedicated app for the iPad. For years, Instagram seemed disinterested in prioritizing an iPad application, but recent developments may signal a shift in this stance.

As highlighted in a recent article by The Information, Instagram appears poised to leverage the current uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s legal battles in the United States. The platform plans to unveil features designed to fill the gap left by its rival’s possible withdrawal.

Back in 2022, Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, responded to a query from tech influencer Marques Brownlee regarding the iPad app. Mosseri stated that the user base simply wasn’t significant enough to warrant immediate attention, expressing hope that it could become a priority eventually.

If recent insights from The Information are accurate, plans have evidently evolved, with internal sources revealing that an iPad app is finally on the agenda. This new application aims to deliver a native experience on iPad that competes more effectively with TikTok, featuring vertical full-screen video and an enhanced landscape mode showcasing comments and other functionalities.

Utilizing Instagram on a tablet aligns perfectly with the device’s larger display. Engaging with longer Reels content becomes much more enjoyable on an expansive screen. Furthermore, many content creators rely on iPads for editing their Reels and photos; an official app could greatly enhance efficiency in their workflows.

Then there are individuals who prefer accessing Instagram through their Mac and iPad to reduce their iPhone screen time. It becomes much easier to manage social media interactions when not confined to a smartphone, and the hope is to eliminate the hassles of using the website or navigating the iPhone app’s limitations.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

While there’s excitement about a dedicated Instagram app, it’s crucial to note that its release date remains uncertain, and Meta may alter its development trajectory.

Currently, the web app is the optimal solution for iPad users. Instagram has significantly improved its website, transforming it from a basic interface to one with a vertical sidebar and a more functional two-pane messaging interface.

Additionally, by accessing the Reels tab, users can scroll through an endless feed of Reels videos, albeit with less fluidity compared to the mobile app experience.

To add the Instagram web app to your iPad, simply go to the website, tap the Share button, and select Add to Home Screen from the options. After confirming, an Instagram “app” will appear on your home screen.

When launched, this new “app” will display the Instagram website without any web-browser distractions, offering a more focused browsing experience.

Credit: Khamosh Pathak

Alternatively, the iPhone version of Instagram can also be installed on an iPad. While it functions well, the app typically opens in a small window that can feel disproportionate. Users can expand this window using the Zoom feature, making the experience somewhat tolerable.

This option, despite its somewhat awkward interface, generally offers more comprehensive features compared to the web app. Users can repost to Stories and manage collaborations, which are functionalities that may not be available on the web platform.