Instagram may create a dedicated Reels app to provide a TikTok-like experience.
Meta has not officially confirmed the app's development or release timeline.
This potential move follows Meta's previous attempts to rival TikTok, such as launching Lasso in 2018.
Instagram is reportedly considering launching a new standalone application for Reels, according to The Information citing the Instagram’s chief, Adam Mosseri statement to staff this week. Instagram’s parent company Meta hopes to capitalise on its current status in the US and potentially gain market share in the growing short video social media space.
According to the report, the new app will be similar to TikTok and provide the same video-scrolling experience as the Chinese platform, but with a more focused platform for Reels. This new move makes sense, as Meta’s Instagram has been shifting its focus to video after being an image-sharing social media platform for the past few years.
However, Meta has not officially acknowledged the development of such an application, but it appears to be a strategic move to strengthen Instagram’s position in the short video space, given TikTok’s current scrutiny. TikTok is under regulatory pressure, and it is still unclear whether it will continue to operate in the United States or be banned again.
Also read: iQOO 12 available with Rs 9,000 discount on Amazon: Here’s how this deal works
Furthermore, many other countries, including India and parts of Europe, have banned TikTok, which may provide an additional boost to Meta’s upcoming Reels application, if one is introduced. However, the application may experience some transition issues, and a large number of Instagram users use Reels. It is also unclear whether Meta will continue to offer Reels on Instagram or discontinue them in order to increase user engagement on the other application.
Previously, Meta introduced a new Edits application that allows users to edit their videos, indicating a clear intention to compete with TikTok. Meta also challenged TikTok in 2018 by launching Lasso, a standalone video sharing app. However, it failed and was eventually shut down.
However, Meta has not confirmed the timeline for the possible Reels app release, so we will have to wait for more information.
Follow Us
Ashish Singh
Ashish Singh is the Chief Copy Editor at Digit. Previously, he worked as a Senior Sub-Editor with Jagran English from 2022, and has been a journalist since 2020, with experience at Times Internet. Ashish specializes in Technology. In his free time, you can find him exploring new gadgets, gaming, and discovering new places. View Full Profile
