Amid TikTok row, Instagram might roll out a separate app for Reels

Instagram is planning to launch an individual app for its short-video streaming feature, Reels, according to the Information report. This comes after TikTok is facing a major setback in the US.

In Short

• Instagram Reels might get an independent app
• This app is aimed to target the TikTok audience
• This comes after TikTok was banned in the US

As TikTok is struggling to keep up in the US, Instagram is planning to make the most of its turmoil. It is most likely that TikTok will be banned in the US if it does not adhere to the demands of the US government. Now, with the rival hanging, Instagram is reportedly exploring the possibility of launching a separate app dedicated to its short-form video feature, Reels. According to comments made by its chief, Adam Mosseri, to staff this week, as reported by The Information on Wednesday, this move aims to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s presence in the United States, offering a similar video-scrolling experience.

That said, it is not the first time Meta's Instagram would take such a step. Earlier in January, Meta introduced a new video-editing app called Edits, which appears to target users of CapCut, a popular video-editing app owned by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance. In 2018, Meta launched a standalone video-sharing app, Lasso, in an attempt to compete with TikTok. However, the app failed to gain traction and was eventually shut down.

But, now, since the rival is struggling, Meta is planning to seize the opportunity. But why is TikTok struggling in the US? Let's recap.

TikTok ban in US

The US government alleges that TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, has connections to the Chinese government and may be gathering sensitive data from American users, such as their location, phone records, and messages.

This issue has persisted for years, with US authorities pressuring ByteDance to sell TikTok’s US operations. However, rather than complying, the company opted to cease its operations in the country unless the Supreme Court overturned the ban.

As of February 27, 2025, TikTok's status in the United States remains uncertain. The platform was initially banned on January 19, 2025, following a Supreme Court decision upholding legislation that required ByteDance, TikTok's Chinese parent company, to divest its US operations.

TikTok ban delayed

However, just within 24 hours of the ban, President Donald Trump signed an executive order temporarily suspending the ban for 75 days to explore solutions that address national security concerns while minimising disruption to users. This suspension allowed TikTok to resume operations in the US, but the platform's future hinges on ByteDance's willingness to sell its US stake or implement measures satisfying government security requirements.

During this period, TikTok has undertaken restructuring efforts, including laying off members of its global trust and safety team, which oversees content moderation and user safety. These layoffs have raised questions about the company's commitment to addressing security and privacy concerns.

Public opinion reflects significant concern over TikTok's Chinese ownership, with 77 per cent of Americans expressing apprehension and 63 per cent supporting a ban or forced sale to American owners.

As the 75-day suspension approaches its expiration in early April 2025, discussions between ByteDance and US authorities continue. The outcome will determine whether TikTok can maintain its presence in the US market or face another potential shutdown.