Instagram Tests Reels-First Interface in India and South Korea
Instagram has initiated a trial of a redesigned user interface that prioritizes the Reels feature, launching the test in India and South Korea. This move aligns with Meta’s strategic focus on short-form video content, which has become a major driver of engagement across its platforms.
Key Changes in the New User Interface
The updated design maintains Stories at the top of the screen but relocates the direct message (DM) button to the center of the bottom navigation bar for easier access. Reels now occupy the second position on the navigation bar, emphasizing their importance within the app’s ecosystem.
Users can swipe between tabs, including the newly introduced Following tab positioned adjacent to Reels. This Following tab offers three distinct feed options:
- All: A mix of recommended posts and reels from accounts the user follows.
- Friends: Content exclusively from mutual followers.
- Latest: The most recent posts and reels from followed accounts.
Reels Fuel Instagram’s User Growth
Meta recently announced that Instagram surpassed 3 billion monthly active users, attributing a significant portion of this growth to short videos. Reels are reshared across Meta’s platforms approximately 4.5 billion times, underscoring their central role in user engagement.
“Short videos have become the primary content format driving interaction and retention on Instagram,” a Meta spokesperson said, highlighting the rationale behind the interface redesign.
The company emphasized that the current UI update is limited to a test group but plans a broader rollout based on initial feedback and performance metrics.
FinOracleAI — Market View
Instagram’s decision to foreground Reels in its user interface reflects the broader industry shift towards short-form video content as a key engagement driver. By testing this layout in high-growth markets like India and South Korea, Meta is strategically positioning itself to capture evolving user preferences and maximize content consumption.
- Opportunities: Enhanced user engagement through easier access to Reels and DMs; increased content discovery via the Following tab’s tailored feed options; potential to boost ad revenue linked to higher video consumption.
- Risks: User resistance to interface changes; possible navigation confusion due to tab reorganization; competitive pressure from other short-video platforms.
Impact: The Reels-first UI test signals Instagram’s commitment to video-driven growth, likely strengthening its market position if the rollout proceeds smoothly. However, user adaptation and competitive dynamics will be critical factors to monitor.
