Instagram will receive its own App Clip

When it comes to embracing new iOS capabilities, the Instagram team has a reputation for arriving somewhat belatedly. Additionally, Instagram has chosen to provide its iOS users an App Clip in place of the iPad app, even though many users have been pleading for an iPad app for years.

An App Clip for Instagram for iOS is coming soon

TestFlight beta testers may now access version 319.0.2 of the Instagram app, which includes an App Clip. An App Clip is, for those who are unaware, a “small part of an app that lets you do a task quickly, like rent a bike, pay for parking, or order food,” according to Apple. Stated otherwise, it functions to a sample app that you may use without needing to download the entire program.

Users can test out the Reels short video format, which is integrated into the main Instagram app, with the Instagram App Clip. The Instagram app allows users to view a Reel in the app’s native interface even if they don’t have Instagram installed, much like TikTok’s App Clip.

For instance, if you receive an iMessage from someone including a link to an Instagram Reel, the App Clip will open in place of your usual web browser. Users can tap to share a particular Reel with friends or continue scrolling to view additional well-liked Reels. The App Clip suggests downloading Instagram for the user to view more Reels once they’ve seen about six.

The functionality is undoubtedly a welcome addition to the Instagram app for iOS. Instagram added support for Live Activities last year, allowing users to follow the upload status of a new story or post even when they go to another app. But it’s disappointing to see that the Instagram team doesn’t consider creating an iPad app a top priority which also holds true for Threads. When the update with the App Clip will be made available to the public is unknown.