Instagram May Launch Reels As Separate App: Report

Instagram is reportedly considering the launch of a separate app for Reels. Instagram chief Adam Mosseri told staff about the potential move this week, reported technology industry–focused business publication The Information. Meta, parent company of Instagram, is planning to take advantage of TikTok's uncertain status in the US and is aiming to provide a similar video-scrolling experience for users.

Tech giant Meta has not made any official comment on the matter. Currently, Instagram’s feed comprises photos, videos (Reels), and Stories. The new project, reportedly code-named Project Ray, is likely to feature long-form content, up to 3 minutes, and improved recommendations for users.

In 2018, Meta had introduced a standalone app called Lasso to compete with TikTok. Lasso permitted users to shoot up to 15-second-long videos and overlay popular songs. However, the company shut down the platform in July 2020. Notably, that same year, Instagram launched Reels.