Instagram has begun testing a radical interface overhaul aimed at increasing the time users spend on the platform. With the new update, users will now be greeted by Reels, a stream of short videos, instead of the homepage.

Instagram Will Emphasize Reels Content

Currently, Instagram redirects users to the homepage upon opening. With the new system, Reels content becomes the app’s opening point. With this move, Instagram aims to further increase the already high consumption of short videos.

The platform has already surpassed 3 billion monthly users, demonstrating a large audience, but this new test paves the way for users to watch short videos for even longer periods of time.

In the new interface, Stories remain fixed at the top of the screen. Messages (DMs) are being moved from the top right corner to the navigation bar at the bottom of the app. Instagram hasn’t made such a drastic interface change in a long time.

Experts argue that such algorithmic designs appeal to users’ habits rather than their willpower and encourage social media addiction. Psychologists believe this makes it difficult for people to manage their time.

Users are expected to react to the platform’s move. Experts are warning individuals to set their own social media usage limits for this very reason.

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