Instagram Tests Opening to Reels

Instagram is testing an option to open the app straight onto Reels, instead of the usual home feed. Stories stay at the top, but as you scroll you move into a full-screen stream of short videos. If that sounds a lot like TikTok, you’re not wrong.

An app researcher spotted the test, and Meta hasn’t confirmed it yet. But Instagram tried a similar Reels-first layout with users in India in 2025, so the direction of travel is pretty clear.

What it means for your content: If more people land on Reels first, short-form video becomes even more important for reaching new audiences. A few things to focus on:

• Post Reels regularly, not just when you’ve got something big to share
• Give people a reason to stop scrolling in the first few seconds
• Keep using posts and carousels for the followers who already know and love you