Instagram, owned by Meta, has introduced Instagram for TV, a new app that brings Reels viewing to television screens. The feature is currently in testing.
What Instagram for TV offers
Instagram for TV is designed to support shared viewing of Reels on larger screens. The company said the test is intended to understand which features work best when people watch Reels together on TV.
Getting started
Users can install the Instagram app directly on Fire TV and sign in with their existing account. The app can also be opened through a Settings shortcut available in the Instagram mobile app.
The TV app supports up to five accounts, allowing multiple users in a household to access personalized Reels feeds. Instagram also allows users to create a separate account specifically for TV viewing.
Reels organized into channels
After signing in, Reels are grouped into interest-based channels, including music, sports highlights, travel discoveries, and trending content. Reels play automatically with sound, enabling hands-free viewing without manual scrolling. Instagram noted that this is an early test and that the experience will continue to change as user feedback is collected.
Search and planned features
The app includes search tools to help users find creators, browse profiles focused on Reels, and explore specific interests. Instagram said future updates may introduce:
- Phone-based remote controls
- Improved channel navigation
- Shared feeds for group viewing
- Easier access to content from followed creators
Safety and content standards
Instagram for TV follows content standards intended for shared viewing. Reels shown on TV generally align with the PG-13 rating system recently introduced on the mobile app.
For teen accounts, Instagram for TV reflects the same safeguards available on mobile, including restrictions on unsuitable content, comments, and profiles. Time spent using Instagram for TV counts toward a teen’s total usage limits, and the same reminders for usage thresholds and sleep mode may apply.
Availability
The Instagram for TV app is currently available in the US on select Amazon Fire TV devices. Supported models include Fire TV Stick HD, Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, Fire TV Stick 4K Max (1st and 2nd generation), Fire TV 2-Series, Fire TV 4-Series, and Fire TV Omni QLED Series. The app is available through the Amazon Appstore.