Your Instagram Feed Is Getting Smarter: PiP Reels and iPad Optimization Arrive

Instagram is getting a whole lot smarter and more convenient with two major updates designed to optimize the user experience. The platform is now testing Picture-in-Picture (PiP) for Reels and has officially launched a fully optimized app for the iPad.
The PiP feature adds a new layer of intelligence to the Reels player. It recognizes when you need to multitask and allows the video to continue playing in a small, floating window instead of stopping. This intuitive functionality, currently in a trial phase, makes the app feel more integrated with your device’s overall workflow.
This smarter playback is a boon for creators, as it helps to maximize viewership by accommodating the user’s need to switch between tasks. Higher audience retention is the expected outcome. The feature will be optional, ensuring user control over the experience.
The launch of the optimized iPad app is another smart move. By creating an interface that properly utilizes the tablet’s screen real estate, Instagram is providing a more logical and visually pleasing experience for a significant segment of its user base.