Instagram is reportedly considering launching a standalone app for its short-form video feature, Reels. This initiative, disclosed by Instagram head Adam Mosseri to staff members, aims to capitalize on the uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the United States. By offering a dedicated Reels app, Meta seeks to provide users with an experience similar to TikTok’s, potentially attracting those seeking alternatives.
This isn’t Meta’s first attempt at creating a separate app for short-form videos. In 2018, the company introduced Lasso, a video-sharing app designed to compete with TikTok. However, Lasso was discontinued due to limited user engagement. More recently, in January 2025, Meta launched Edits, a video-editing app targeting users of CapCut, a popular tool from TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance.
The potential ban of TikTok in the U.S. has created a unique opportunity for platforms like Instagram to capture a larger share of the short-form video market. By developing a standalone Reels app, Instagram aims to position itself as a viable alternative for creators and users affected by TikTok’s uncertain status.
As of now, Meta has not provided an official comment on this development.
