Instagram is shaking up how we move through the app — and it’s all about putting Reels and DMs front and center.

Starting this week, users will see the option to opt in early to a new navigation layout designed around the features people use most. According to Adam Mosseri, the goal is to make the app feel more intuitive for how people actually use it day to day.

“We’re organizing the app around what people use the app for most, which has increasingly been Reels and DMs,” said Mosseri. “I know these types of changes can take time to get used to, so we’re giving people the option to try this early before we roll it out.”

This update comes on the heels of Instagram launching its Reels-first iPad app last month, where users immediately noticed the homepage defaulting to the Reels tab. Now, that same experience is making its way to mobile.
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What’s Changing

Here’s how the new navigation is organized:

• 🏠 Stories & Feed stay in the first tab
• 🎥 Reels moves to second
• 💬 DMs shift to third
• 👆 You can now swipe between tabs for quicker navigation

For years, Instagram’s navigation has centered on the home feed. Now, Reels and DMs are stepping into the spotlight — a clear reflection of how user behavior has evolved on the platform.
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Why It Matters for Creators

This isn’t just a UI refresh. It’s Instagram doubling down on short-form video and direct messaging. For creators and brands, that’s a big signal about where the platform is headed:

• 📈 Reels will likely become even more central to discovery and engagement.
• 💬 DMs may play a bigger role in building relationships and driving conversions.

If your strategy isn’t already leaning into Reels and community-building through DMs, now’s the time to start.
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Should You Opt In?

Early testers often get an inside look at how new features work before they fully roll out. If you’re curious (and want to get ahead of the curve), opting in could give you a leg up on how to shape your content strategy.

If change makes you nervous, no worries — Instagram is still offering the traditional layout (for now).