Will there be a separate Reels app?

The world around us is constantly changing, and our social media apps evolve with it. Rumor has it—Meta is considering developing a standalone app for Instagram Reels. But what would this mean for the current Instagram app? And could this become a new competitor for TikTok?

What will this app look like?

There are rumors that Meta is working on a separate app, entirely dedicated to Reels—a platform independent from the current Instagram app, focusing solely on short-form video. If we visualize it, it would likely feature a full-screen, scrollable display, strongly resembling TikTok. Instagram head Adam Mosseri reportedly informed his team last week about potential plans for Reels (Source: The Information). The discussion revolves around a full-screen, scrollable feed displaying a wide range of video content, with videos up to 3 minutes in length.

So far, Instagram has not responded to these speculations. However, if Meta does decide to move in this direction, it could have a significant impact on both Instagram users and TikTok’s competitive landscape.

What does this mean for Meta and TikTok users?

If Meta ultimately decides to launch Reels as a separate app, this would likely mean that Reels will be removed from the current Instagram app. Instagram could then shift its focus back to photos and carousels, while the new app would be entirely dedicated to short-form video.

The big question is whether users actually want this. Is there room for yet another short-form video platform alongside TikTok? Or will this be a repeat of previous experiments, such as IGTV? On the other hand, a standalone app could also offer opportunities: creators who want to focus exclusively on video could benefit from a dedicated platform, without the distractions of other Instagram features.
Whether this is the right strategy will depend on how Meta positions the app and whether users are willing to make the switch. For now, we’ll have to wait and see how this unfolds.