Instagram is making headlines with two significant updates designed to vastly improve the user experience. The platform has begun testing a Picture-in-Picture (PiP) mode for Reels and has officially launched its highly-anticipated native app for the iPad, marking a major push to modernize its interface and functionality.
The PiP test introduces a convenient way to multitask while watching video content. Users in the test group can now switch to other apps while a Reel continues to play in a small, floating window on their screen. This mirrors functionality that has been popular on other video platforms for years and addresses a key request from the Instagram community. The company hopes this will encourage longer viewing sessions, benefiting both users and content creators.
If the trial period goes well, the feature could be rolled out globally in the near future. For users who want more control, Instagram has confirmed that a simple toggle to turn off PiP will be available in the menu for each Reel. This ensures the feature remains a helpful option rather than a mandatory change.
The second major announcement is the arrival of a dedicated iPad app. This is a significant milestone, as users will no longer have to rely on a poorly scaled iPhone app. The new version is built to take full advantage of the tablet’s screen size, offering a cleaner layout, easier navigation, and a more immersive way to engage with photos and Reels.