Instagram tests opening right onto Reels

Instagram is testing a significant change to its app, making Reels and DMs the first two tabs. This opt-in test is currently underway in India. According to Instagram head Adam Mosseri, Reels and DMs have been key drivers of growth for the platform in recent years, which is why the company is exploring this change. The new home tab will feature a familiar layout, including a horizontal list of Stories at the top. However, when users scroll up, the layout will shift to a video-centric format, similar to the current Reels tab. While photos from followed accounts will still be included, the specific implementation is not yet clear. This test follows Instagram's recent launch of its iPad app, which also opens directly into Reels. Meta stated that this design choice was made "to reflect how people use bigger screens today – for lean back entertainment." The new test on the main mobile app suggests that Instagram is considering making Reels an even more prominent feature of the platform.