After years of waiting and countless user requests, Instagram might finally be getting a dedicated iPad app. This move comes as Meta begins to rethink its strategy, potentially capitalizing on the uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the U.S. With millions of iPad users forced to rely on a scaled-up version of the iPhone app or the web browser, the news of a native Instagram app is generating a lot of buzz among Apple fans and social media enthusiasts alike.

Why Meta Is Finally Paying Attention To The iPad

For more than a decade, Instagram users on the iPad have asked a simple question: where is the official app? While the iPhone app has improved over the years, running it on an iPad remains a stretched, clunky experience. Meta’s past reluctance has often been explained away by prioritization issues. In 2022, Instagram head Adam Mosseri admitted that the iPad user base was not “a big enough group of people to be a priority.”

But things are changing fast in 2025. With TikTok facing potential bans or forced divestments in the U.S., Meta may now see an opportunity to strengthen its hold on tablet users. According to a report from The Information, Meta has begun development on a dedicated Instagram for iPad app. This decision signals a shift in mindset—a willingness to finally offer a polished, native experience tailored to the iPad’s larger screen and multitasking features like Stage Manager.

This sudden interest in building a native Instagram tablet version shows Meta’s intent to stay competitive, especially as user engagement across platforms becomes more fragmented. With iPad users becoming increasingly vocal and influential, the timing couldn’t be better for Meta to act.

The Current Instagram iPad Experience Is Not Enough

At present, using Instagram on an iPad is far from ideal. Users either use the iPhone app in compatibility mode or resort to the web version. While the web app has improved over time, it still lacks the fluid design and native feel that most users expect from a dedicated app. Instagram in Stage Manager offers a slightly better experience, but it remains a workaround at best.

The lack of an optimized interface, touch-friendly gestures, and multitasking features has made the iPad Instagram experience feel incomplete. This is especially noticeable for content creators and influencers who rely on Instagram as a primary platform for their business or branding. These users often multitask between editing tools, messaging apps, and Instagram itself—an experience that could be drastically improved with a native app.

Considering the hardware capabilities of the iPad Pro and iPad Air, and the user demand, creating a version that fully utilizes the iPad’s potential is long overdue. A dedicated app would not only benefit regular users but also open up more creative tools and experiences tailored for tablet use.

Meta’s Changing Strategy Amid Growing Competition

The growing legal uncertainties around TikTok appear to have given Meta the motivation to finally revisit its priorities. With lawmakers in the U.S. pushing a bill that could ban TikTok or force its parent company ByteDance to sell, Meta may see this as the perfect time to reinforce its position in the social media space—especially on platforms where it previously lacked focus, like iPad.

Instagram remains a core part of Meta’s ecosystem, and expanding its reach through a new native app aligns with the company’s strategy to keep users engaged. By bringing in new features and improved usability through a native app, Meta could significantly increase time spent on Instagram by tablet users. The tablet market, especially in education, creative, and entertainment sectors, is growing—and ignoring it any longer would be a missed opportunity.

More importantly, Meta is demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to user demand, a shift from the earlier approach of focusing only on platforms with the largest audiences. With technology trends moving quickly, adapting to user behavior—even on less dominant platforms like iPads—may prove to be a wise long-term strategy.

FAQs: Everything You Should Know About Instagram For iPad

Is Instagram Developing A Native App For iPad?

Yes, according to reports from The Information, Meta is currently working on a native version of Instagram designed specifically for iPad users.

Why Has Meta Delayed An iPad App For So Long?

Instagram head Adam Mosseri previously explained that the iPad user base was not large enough to justify the development effort. Other priorities took precedence over building a tablet-optimized version.

How Can I Use Instagram On iPad Today?

Currently, users can run the iPhone version of the Instagram app on their iPad or access Instagram via a web browser. Some users also utilize Stage Manager on iPadOS to enhance multitasking.

What Will A Native Instagram iPad App Offer?

The native app is expected to take advantage of the iPad’s larger screen, multitasking features, and potentially offer better tools for creators and content consumers.

When Will The Instagram iPad App Be Released?

There is no official release date yet. Meta has not confirmed timelines, but development has reportedly begun, suggesting a possible release in the near future.

How Does This Move Impact Instagram’s Competition With TikTok?

With TikTok’s legal status under scrutiny in the U.S., Meta might be leveraging this period of uncertainty to strengthen Instagram’s reach across more devices, particularly iPads.

A Long-Overdue Step Forward

The idea of a native Instagram iPad app is not just exciting—it is necessary. As users evolve and their expectations rise, companies like Meta must evolve with them. Creating a powerful, user-friendly Instagram experience on the iPad aligns with where modern tech habits are heading. Whether you are a casual browser, an artist, a student, or a digital creator, the release of this app could significantly improve your interaction with the platform.

Meta’s decision—if finalized and implemented—could serve as a reminder that listening to user feedback and adapting to market shifts are vital to staying ahead in today’s competitive digital landscape. For now, iPad users can finally hope that their long wait might soon be over.