Instagram is taking another step toward making Reels the centerpiece of its app. The platform is testing a new option that would let users open straight to their Reels feed instead of the traditional post feed, signaling a further shift away from the Instagram many users first knew.
The test was spotted by app researcher Radu Oncescu, who shared images of the in-app explainer. According to the screenshots, Stories would still appear at the top of the home screen as usual, while users could swipe across to reach the traditional feed.
A Familiar Layout With a New Focus
The option appears designed to avoid disrupting existing habits. Users would be able to return to the regular feed experience whenever they like, giving Instagram a simple way to lean into Reels without upsetting its audience too much. A similar format was reportedly tested in India last year, where the Stories bar sat above the main Reels feed and a top-right icon opened the standard feed.
Why Reels Is Taking Over
The emphasis on short video is backed by usage data. More than half of the time people spend in the app now goes to Reels, and all of the platform’s engagement gains have been driven by that format. For at least some users, opening directly to Reels could be a natural fit.
A Risk of Backlash
Still, the move departs from the Instagram of days past, and that could provoke pushback. This is likely why Meta is positioning the feature as an optional setting rather than a default. If enough users switch over and Reels engagement climbs, however, Instagram may eventually make the Reels-first layout the standard experience for everyone.