Amazon Fire TV owners can now stream Instagram Reels directly on their televisions, offering a relaxed way to view short videos on the big screen.
The Instagram for TV app has launched on compatible Fire TV streaming sticks and smart TVs, introducing a dedicated version of the popular social platform for larger displays. This comes soon after Instagram became available on iPads.
Centered on Reels, the app arranges content into tailored channels reflecting user preferences, covering categories like music, sports, travel, popular trends, and additional options.
Tapping a channel triggers automatic playback of Reels with full audio, letting viewers sit back and enjoy a continuous stream without needing to navigate manually, according to Meta's announcement.
This TV edition of Instagram handles up to five profiles and allows users to set up a unique account dedicated solely to television sessions.
Beyond locating content creators, the application, currently in preliminary trials, enables liking individual Reels and checking out comments and responses. Meta is evaluating enhancements such as phone-as-remote functionality, joint viewing feeds for groups, and smoother channel-switching options.
Optimized for shared big-screen experiences, the platform's Reels mostly align with PG-13 standards, incorporating further restrictions for accounts belonging to teenagers.
At present, the app operates exclusively in the United States on designated Fire TV hardware, such as the Fire TV Stick HD, Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, Fire TV Stick 4K Max (initial and subsequent generations), Fire TV 2-Series, Fire TV 4-Series, and Fire TV Omni QLED Series.
Meta plans to extend availability to more hardware and international markets following feedback from this initial rollout.
Instagram joins other social platforms in expanding to televisions, with TikTok already supporting apps on Android TV, Samsung sets, and LG models.
Users can also cast TikTok or Instagram content from Android or iOS devices to TVs using Chromecast or Apple's AirPlay technology.