Instagram introduced the Instagram for TV app last December, initially available on Amazon Fire TV devices in the US, and expanded to Google TV devices in February. Now, the app is available on Samsung TVs for 2020 models and newer.
Along with the expansion to Samsung TVs, Instagram announced that it is testing new features aimed at enhancing the experience of discovering, sharing, and enjoying content with others.
The updates include organizing channels based on users' interests, such as comedy, sports, and favorite creators. Users will also be able to cast Reels from their smartphones to their TVs, and access videos from the Saved tab; however, this casting feature is currently only available on Google TV and Fire TV.
In addition, users can watch Stories from friends and creators on their TVs. Instagram is also testing a dedicated section for horizontal videos to provide creators with additional ways to connect with their audiences while optimizing the viewing experience for large screens.
Beyond testing new features, Instagram is exploring innovative content formats tailored for the living room:
- Longer-form creator content: Exploring opportunities for creators to tell deeper stories and foster stronger connections with their audiences through extended video formats.
- Episodic series: Investigating content that unfolds over multiple episodes, building on existing viewing behaviors observed on the Instagram mobile app.
- Live on TV: Seeking to introduce live creator experiences on large screens, providing viewers with new opportunities to engage and participate in real time.
Instagram anticipates rolling out these exciting formats soon.
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