Instagram Redesigns Interface, Prioritizing Reels and Direct Messaging
Instagram is rolling out a redesigned interface to all users, shifting teh placement of key features to emphasize Reels and Direct Messages (DM). The update alters the tab layout, moving Reels to the second position and DMs to the third, and introduces swipe-based navigation between the appS main sections.
Creator economy expert Lia Haberman has observed a growing number of users receiving prompts to try the new version,which aims to highlight “your favorite spaces” – the areas of the app most frequently used by individuals. According to Instagram Head Adam Mosseri, the goal is to simplify the user experience and spotlight the features users engage with most.
This isn’t merely a cosmetic change; the update reflects a basic shift in how people are using Instagram. Reels and direct messaging have surpassed the traditional photo feed in popularity. Internal Instagram data reveals a 20% increase in video watch time year-over-year, with Reels now accounting for half of the total time spent on the app.
The new interface aims to provide more immediate access to Reels and conversations, fostering a more continuous and streamlined experience by reducing the number of steps required to reach popular content. While some users may require an adjustment period, the changes are intended to create more intuitive navigation.
For marketers, this update doesn’t necessitate a complete strategy overhaul, but it reinforces existing priorities.stories and Reels remain the primary channels for maximizing visibility, while the Instagram feed continues to serve as a valuable space for brand identity and profile presentation. Monitoring engagement data will be crucial to assess the update’s impact on overall performance.
The evolution of Instagram signals a clear trajectory: increased video content and more direct interaction. The platform is increasingly resembling TikTok, with a growing emphasis on full-screen video and personal connections via DM. Testing is already underway in India and on the iPad version to launch the app directly into the Reels feed, potentially indicating a future global standard.
Instagram users,especially those managing business or personal profiles,should adapt their social strategies accordingly. While feed posts remain valuable, prioritizing Reels and Stories is essential to capitalize on increased visibility and engagement. It’s time to experiment with new video formats and test how new features impact audience behavior.
