Instagram Launches Native iPad App After 15-Year Wait, Responding to User Demand

Instagram, has officially debuted a native application optimized for iPads, marking the end of a 15-year absence of a dedicated tablet version. The release, announced on September 3, 2025, allows iPad users to access features like connecting with friends, watching Reels, and exploring content in a format tailored to larger screens. The app is available for free download on the App Store for devices running iPadOS 15.1 or later, with a global rollout underway.

The launch comes after persistent calls from users who have long relied on the iPhone version of Instagram, which scales up awkwardly on iPad displays. Instagram, first introduced in 2010, has grown to over 2 billion monthly active users worldwide, but its absence from the iPad ecosystem has been a point of frustration for tablet owners. Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, acknowledged the delay in a statement, noting that the company prioritized mobile phone experiences initially but recognized the need for a tablet-optimized app as user habits evolved. "We've heard the feedback loud and clear," Mosseri said in the announcement. "This app brings the full Instagram experience to iPad, making it easier to create, share, and discover on a bigger canvas."

Key features of the new iPad app include a redesigned interface that takes advantage of the device's larger screen real estate. Users can now view feeds in a multi-column layout, edit photos with more precise tools, and engage in live sessions or Stories with enhanced visibility. The app supports landscape orientation, which is particularly useful for creators using iPads for content production. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with other Apple ecosystem features, such as Split View for multitasking and improved performance on M-series chips found in newer iPad models.

The decision to develop an iPad-specific app follows years of speculation and rumors. As early as 2024, reports suggested Meta was testing prototypes, but no official confirmation came until this week. Industry analysts point to competitive pressures from platforms like TikTok, which already offers tablet support, as a potential motivator. "Instagram's move addresses a gap in its accessibility, especially as tablets become more central to creative workflows," said Sarah Frier, author of "No Filter: The Inside Story of Instagram," in a recent interview. The release also aligns with broader trends in social media, where users increasingly consume content on multiple devices beyond smartphones.

Early user reactions have been positive, with many praising the improved usability. On social media, posts highlighted the relief of no longer dealing with pixelated interfaces or limited functionality. However, some users noted minor bugs in the initial rollout, such as occasional crashes during video uploads, which Meta has promised to address in upcoming updates.

Meta has not disclosed specific download numbers yet, but the app's availability is expected to boost engagement among iPad owners, a demographic that includes professionals, students, and casual users. The company emphasized that the iPad version will receive the same feature updates as its mobile counterparts, ensuring parity across platforms.

Looking ahead, Instagram plans to iterate on the app based on user feedback, potentially adding more advanced tools for creators. This launch could signal further expansions for Meta's apps on other devices, as the company continues to adapt to shifting digital landscapes. For now, iPad users can finally enjoy Instagram in its intended form, closing a chapter on one of social media's longest-standing oversights.