Instagram Reels Standalone App: Meta Explores Launch Amid TikTok US Ban Threats & Competition
27th February 2025, Kathmandu
Instagram is exploring the possibility of launching Reels as a separate app, according to a report by The Information. This decision comes amid growing uncertainty about TikTok’s future in the United States due to regulatory concerns.
Instagram Reels Standalone App
Internal Discussions on Reels Expansion
Instagram chief Adam Mosseri reportedly discussed the idea in a staff meeting earlier this week. However, Meta, Instagram’s parent company, has not made an official statement yet.
The move aims to strengthen Instagram’s position in the short-video market while offering users an alternative in case TikTok faces restrictions or a ban in the U.S. With 170 million American users, TikTok has become a significant player in the social media industry. However, concerns over data security and potential Chinese government influence have placed the platform under heavy scrutiny.
Regulatory Pressure on TikTok
The Biden administration has raised security concerns about TikTok, fearing it could be used for data surveillance and political manipulation. In January, former President Donald Trump extended TikTok’s compliance deadline by 75 days. Under the law introduced by Biden’s administration, TikTok must either sell its U.S. operations to a local company or face a ban.
Trump had suggested a 50-50 partnership between the U.S. and ByteDance, but the proposal lacked a clear implementation plan. Meanwhile, free speech advocates have opposed banning TikTok, arguing it would limit digital expression and affect millions of creators and businesses.
Meta’s Previous Attempts to Compete with TikTok
This is not the first time Meta has tried to challenge TikTok. In 2018, the company launched Lasso, a short video app designed to rival TikTok. However, it failed to attract users and was eventually shut down.
To further compete with TikTok, Meta recently launched Edits, a video-editing app similar to CapCut, TikTok’s editing tool. This step signals Meta’s growing focus on dominating short-form video content.
Future of Instagram’s Reels App
If Instagram moves forward with a standalone Reels app, it could provide a TikTok-like experience while taking advantage of the latter’s regulatory challenges in the U.S. However, user adoption and competition from other short video platforms will determine its success.
For now, Meta continues to refine its video strategy, ensuring it remains a dominant force in the social media landscape.
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