News in Short
- Instagram is testing long-form videos, episodic series, and Live TV experiences on its TV app.
- The move follows Meta’s new Series feature for serialized creator content.
- Instagram TV is expanding to Samsung TVs alongside Amazon Fire and Google TV.
- New features include channels, casting support, horizontal videos, and Stories viewing.
Instagram is expanding its TV ambitions with new experiments focused on long-form content, episodic programming, and live creator experiences. The update signals a broader push by Instagram to move beyond short-form Reels and compete for viewing time on television screens.
The announcement comes as the platform continues to evolve its TV app, which launched last year. Instagram says it is exploring new viewing formats that could make the app a destination for extended content consumption rather than quick scrolling sessions.
Why Is Instagram Adding Series and Live TV?
Instagram has built its success around mobile-first content. However, user viewing habits continue to shift across devices, including connected TVs. As a result, Instagram is testing features that support longer viewing sessions and recurring content formats.
The company’s plans include longer-form videos, multi-episode content, and live creator broadcasts designed specifically for TV audiences. The move follows Meta’s recent testing of a new “Series” feature for Reels, which helps users follow serialized content more easily across Instagram and Facebook.
By introducing episodic formats, Instagram is creating new opportunities for creators to develop ongoing shows and content franchises. At the same time, viewers may find it easier to follow story-driven content without leaving the platform.
How Is the Instagram TV App Changing?
The Instagram TV app is also receiving several new features aimed at improving content discovery and viewing experiences.
One of the biggest additions is Channels. When users open the app, they will see personalized content hubs based on their interests, favorite creators, and viewing preferences. These channels are designed to help households discover content together, whether they enjoy sports, comedy, entertainment, or creator-led programming.
Instagram is also testing a dedicated section for horizontal videos. While vertical video remains central to the platform, horizontal content aligns more naturally with television viewing. This feature could help Instagram attract creators who already produce content for larger screens.
In addition, users can now cast Reels and saved content directly from their smartphones to compatible TVs. The update creates a smoother connection between mobile viewing and living room entertainment.
Another notable change is support for Stories. Previously, the TV app focused mainly on Reels. Users can now view Stories from other accounts directly through the television interface.
Which Devices Support Instagram TV?
Instagram confirmed that its TV app is rolling out to Samsung TVs. The platform is already available on Amazon Fire TV and Google TV devices.
The wider device availability gives Instagram access to a larger connected-TV audience. It also strengthens Meta’s efforts to extend engagement beyond smartphones and tablets.
What Does This Mean for the Future of Instagram?
The latest Instagram update highlights a growing convergence between social media and streaming platforms. While Instagram remains focused on creator-driven content, its investment in series, live programming, and TV-first experiences suggests a broader strategy aimed at capturing attention across every screen.
As Instagram continues to develop its TV ecosystem, the platform is positioning itself as more than a destination for short videos. The evolution of Instagram could reshape how creators distribute content and how audiences consume entertainment in the living room.
