Instagram Redesigns Home Screen, Puts Reels & Shop Tabs In Latest Update
Image via Instagram
Instagram has unveiled major changes to its app’s home screen.
The new design gives its video feature, Reels, its own tab, as well as a button dedicated to shopping.
Previously, the Reels tab was located where the ‘+’ icon for creating posts or Stories used to be. Now, it has been moved to the top of the main screen, along with the heart icon where you tap on to check your likes and follows. The current heart button has been swapped with the new Shop tab, while the direct messaging icon stays put.
The Reels tab is for you to discover “short, fun videos from creators around the world,” while the Shop option gives users quick access to different brands and products.
Head of Instagram Adam Mosseri said that the changes have been implemented as the company aims to focus on “young people and creators because they’re trendsetters.”
On the Instagram blog, Mosseri explained that users found themselves watching “short, entertaining videos” when the pandemic hit. More have also resorted to shopping online and looking at their favorite creators for fashion inspiration.
Instagram found that Reels, which resembles TikTok, has grown in popularity, and decided to make it a prominent feature to get more people to interact with it.
“We’re rolling out the Reels tab to be a kind of a stage, a place where people can share their creativity with the world and have a chance to break out and find an audience,” Mosseri shared.
The Shop tab, on the other hand, allows users to search for specific products, see personalized recommendations, and purchase items directly on the platform. “With the Shop tab, we’re making it easy to get inspired by creators you love, shop on Instagram, and support small businesses,” Mosseri spoke about the feature. “You can find personalized recommendations, editors’ picks curated by our shop channel, shoppable videos, new product collections, and more.”
Instagram is set to roll out the new features within the next few days.
Some changes are coming to Instagram 👀
— Instagram (@instagram) November 12, 2020
Today you’ll start seeing a Reels tab and a Shop tab on your home screen ✨https://t.co/6CKOiucokx pic.twitter.com/fdMOI8Dhya
The Shop tab is a better way to connect with brands, find products you love and support small businesses 🛍
— Instagram (@instagram) November 12, 2020
You can find personalized recommendations, editors’ picks and more 🙌
We’re excited about all these updates and think they give Instagram a much-needed refresh. ❤️ pic.twitter.com/XgefDqi4we
After launching Reels a few months ago, we’re rolling out a Reels tab to make it easier to discover short, fun videos and share your creativity with the world🤳 pic.twitter.com/x9p5CNLggD
— Instagram (@instagram) November 12, 2020
[via PetaPixel, cover image via Instagram]
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