Instagram emphasizes Reels in new design update

Social Media Today

by Andrew Hutchinson

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Instagram has unveiled a new design update that places greater emphasis on Reels, offering users customizable feed options and a dedicated "Your Feeds" center. This shift reflects Instagram's strategic focus on short-form video content, which now accounts for 50% of time spent on the platform. The update includes a bottom control panel icon leading to the new feeds hub, where users can explore Reels from various categories like Following, Friends, and Latest, as well as Favorites and Suggested streams. This design change aligns with Instagram's broader pivot toward short-form video, driven by its popularity among users. The introduction of the "Your Feeds" center marks a significant step in Instagram's evolution, catering to the growing demand for Reels content. While the platform has not yet made Reels the default main feed, this update signals a potential future direction, particularly for users who prioritize Reels over traditional posts. Despite this shift, Instagram remains committed to maintaining its photo-centric main feed, as emphasized by Adam Mosseri, Instagram's chief. From a marketing perspective, this update underscores the importance of adapting to user behavior and content consumption trends. Brands must now consider how to integrate short-form video into their social media strategies to align with Instagram's new focus. Reels' increasing popularity presents an opportunity for businesses to create engaging, dynamic content that resonates with audiences. Ultimately, Instagram's design update highlights the platform's ongoing transformation into a short-form video hub. While traditional photo posts remain relevant, brands should prioritize Reels to stay visible and competitive in this evolving landscape. The customizable feeds and new features offer marketers tools to better engage users and deliver content that aligns with their preferences. As Instagram continues to adapt to user habits, staying

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Originally published on Social Media Today on 2/23/2026