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Instagram iPad App Reportedly in Development After Years of Absence
The iPad, a ubiquitous tablet computer, has become synonymous with the category itself. Despite Apple’s prominent position in the tablet market, the iPad has notably lacked certain key applications for an extended period.
Long Wait for Essential iPad Apps
Since the introduction of the initial iPad in 2010, it wasn’t until the arrival of iPadOS 18 in September 2024 that Apple finally introduced an official calculator application for the iPad – a surprising absence until that point. However, the unavailability of a major app for the iPad isn’t always attributable to Apple.
Instagram for iPad: A Potential Release After 15 Years?
According to recent reports, a highly sought-after application could be nearing its debut on Apple tablets after remaining unavailable for many years. Sources indicate that Instagram is developing a dedicated iPad app, potentially concluding a 15-year wait for Apple users. Instagram launched in 2010, coinciding with the first iPad release, yet a direct search on the iPad App Store currently yields no native Instagram application.
Current Workarounds and User Experience
While users can download the iPhone version of Instagram on iPads, it is displayed in a portrait orientation and appears enlarged, resulting in a suboptimal viewing experience on the larger tablet screen, sometimes causing image pixelation.
“Instagram is also developing a version of the Instagram app specifically designed for iPads, according to a current employee, which could further boost Instagram usage,” the report from The Information stated. “Currently, iPad users are limited to downloading the iPhone version of the Instagram app, which appears zoomed-in and distorted on iPads — a less than ideal experience!”
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Competition with TikTok and Potential Market Impact
Reports suggest Instagram is exploring new strategies to compete effectively with TikTok. An iPad application would arguably have been a beneficial step in this direction much sooner.
As of now, there is no definitive timeline for the release of an official Instagram iPad app, and official confirmation from the company is still pending. Nevertheless, upon release, it is anticipated to rapidly ascend to the top of download charts. Utilizing Instagram for viewing photos, reels, and other content on a larger screen would undoubtedly appeal to millions of iPad owners who are also active users of the Meta-owned social media platform.
Past Statements and Development Priorities
In 2021, Adam Mosseri, head of Instagram, acknowledged that an Instagram iPad app “would be a good thing to do” but indicated it was not a priority. The reasons for this long-standing stance remain unclear, although it is presumed that Mosseri and the company prioritized feature additions to the iPhone and Android versions.
Android vs. Apple App Ecosystem
Developers are required to create separate applications for iPhone and iPad, a distinction not present in the Android ecosystem. Any Android application from the Google Play Store is compatible with both Android smartphones and tablets, enabling all Android tablets to run Instagram.
Demand for a Dedicated iPad Application
Considering the iPad’s position as the globally leading tablet in terms of sales, Instagram’s decision to forgo an official application for these devices has appeared unconventional to many observers.