Why Did It Take So Long?
Instagram’s prolonged absence from iPads has long puzzled users, especially since the app focuses on visual content like photos, videos, and stories—which are better experienced on larger screens.
Behind the scenes, experts point to a mix of technical and personal reasons for the delay. Early versions of Instagram relied on low-resolution images, which appeared poor and disappointing on iPads' high-definition displays.
There was also ongoing tension between Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Cook, particularly after public disputes over user privacy and Apple App Store policies. This is believed to have indirectly delayed app development as a subtle expression of Meta’s dissatisfaction.
A Shift in Meta’s Strategy
With the recent launch of WhatsApp on iPad, it seems Meta is moving past its old disputes with Apple and is now focusing more on actual user needs.
Gurman notes that the improved quality of photos and videos on Instagram, along with the platform’s increasing reliance on long-form, high-resolution content, makes it more ready than ever to deliver a rich experience on tablets.
Competition is Forcing Meta to Act
The rise of strong competitors like TikTok and YouTube Shorts in the tablet app space—both offering smooth iPad experiences—has accelerated Meta’s pace. Instagram has started to lose the attention of a younger audience that prefers apps that work seamlessly on larger screens.
Gurman adds that Meta teams are now working at full capacity to test the app internally, and it's expected to be ready for users in the coming months. He did not comment on whether the Threads app would receive similar treatment.
The End of the “Blown-Up” Version
For years, iPad users were forced to use the iPhone version of Instagram, which led to an awkward screen fit and an underwhelming visual experience.
Now, with the official iPad version approaching release, the Instagram experience on iPads is set to be completely transformed—especially for users who enjoy editing photos and watching visual content on a larger display.
Instagram for iPad is not just a technical update—it’s Meta’s acknowledgment of the importance of supporting different platforms, and a clear sign that user experience must come first, even after years of delay and debate.