Instagram is taking a major step beyond phones by launching a dedicated TV version of its app for Google TV devices. After debuting on Amazon Fire TV in late 2025, the new app brings Instagram’s popular short-form video format—Reels—and regular feed posts to the big screen, letting you enjoy social content from the comfort of your living room.
This article explains what the Instagram TV app offers, why this matters, and how to install it on your Google TV device with clear, SEO-friendly guidance.
What Is the Instagram TV App?
Instagram’s TV app is a version of the standard Instagram experience designed for large screens. Unlike the phone app, which is built for quick vertical scrolling, the TV version is optimized for lean-back viewing using a standard TV remote. You can watch Reels, browse posts (including photos and carousels), and interact with content through likes, comments, and shares—just like on mobile.
Key features include:
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Full-screen viewing of Reels and posts
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Autoplay of content in thematic rows
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Support for multiple Instagram accounts
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Remote navigation tailored for TV screens
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Content categories like comedy, music, sports, travel, lifestyle
This move helps Instagram compete more directly with long-established video platforms on TVs, notably YouTube and even rivals like TikTok’s TV apps.
Why This Expansion Matters
Instagram’s TV app reflects broader trends in how users consume content:
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Big-screen engagement is rising — people are increasingly watching videos on TVs rather than phones or tablets.
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TV apps offer shared experiences, making it easier for families and friends to enjoy content together.
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Competition for attention on TVs is heating up, with major platforms redefining how social video fits into living room habits.
For creators and viewers alike, this evolution offers:
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A new channel to showcase content
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A chance to reach audiences in relaxed, communal settings
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Broader exposure for video formats that originated on mobile
How to Install the Instagram TV App on Google TV
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to setting up Instagram on your Google TV device.
Step 1: Power On Your TV and Connect to the Internet
Make sure your Google TV is connected to Wi-Fi and running the latest software updates. This helps ensure compatibility with the app.
Step 2: Open the Google Play Store
Navigate to the Google Play Store app on your Google TV home screen.
Step 3: Search for “Instagram”
Type Instagram into the search bar and select the app from the results.
Step 4: Install the App
Click Install and wait for it to finish downloading.
Step 5: Launch Instagram
Once installed, open the app from your apps list.
Step 6: Sign In
You can sign in by:
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Scanning a QR code shown on the TV screen with your phone
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Entering your Instagram username and password manually
Step 7: Add Multiple Accounts (Optional)
Instagram allows you to link up to five accounts on one TV, so each household member can view personalized content without switching profiles manually.
Tips for Using Instagram on TV
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Explore topic categories: Channels group content by interests like music, sports, or travel.
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Enjoy autoplay: Once you select a Reel, more videos will play automatically—great for continuous viewing.
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Interact with the content: Use your remote to like, comment, or share without needing a phone.
Availability and Future Rollout
At launch, the Instagram TV app is rolling out in the United States on Google TV devices. Instagram and Meta haven’t yet confirmed a global release date, but expansion to other regions and platforms is expected based on user response and feedback from this initial phase.
Final Thoughts
The arrival of Instagram’s TV app on Google TV marks a notable expansion of social video into traditional living room territory. By blending the familiar Instagram experience with TV-optimized navigation and viewing, the platform is positioning itself as a strong competitor in the increasingly crowded world of connected TV content.
If you’re a regular Instagram user—or a content creator looking for new ways to reach your audience—this new app could change how you think about watching and sharing video beyond your phone screen.
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