Instagram for TV Gets Bigger: New Ways to Watch Together on Samsung Screens

Instagram is taking its social experience beyond the smartphone. The company has launched Instagram for TV on Samsung smart TVs in the United States, bringing a suite of features designed for shared, big-screen viewing. This move aims to transform how users engage with content, making it a more communal activity.

What Does Instagram for TV Offer?

The new TV app introduces several key features that prioritize group watching. Users can now access dedicated Instagram channels, which curate content around specific themes or creators. This makes it easier to discover and enjoy content without endless scrolling.

Furthermore, the app supports casting Reels and Stories directly to the TV. This means you can start watching on your phone and seamlessly continue on the big screen. It’s a natural evolution for a platform that thrives on visual storytelling.

Horizontal Video and Big-Screen Optimization

One of the most significant updates is the support for horizontal video. Instagram has long been associated with vertical content, but the TV experience demands a different orientation. This change allows videos to fill the screen properly, creating a more immersive viewing experience.

Building on this, the interface has been redesigned for remote control navigation. Menus are simpler, and content is organized into rows for easy browsing. This ensures that the app feels native to the TV, not just a phone screen blown up.

How to Access Instagram for TV on Samsung

If you own a Samsung smart TV (2020 models or newer) in the US, you can download the Instagram app from the Samsung App Store. Once installed, log in with your existing account. The app syncs your feed, so you can pick up where you left off on your phone.

For a better experience, consider using your phone as a remote for typing and searching. This hybrid approach combines the convenience of mobile with the visual impact of TV. Learn more about optimizing your Instagram TV setup.

Why Instagram Is Expanding to TV

This expansion reflects a broader trend: social media platforms are seeking to capture living room attention. As streaming services dominate, Instagram wants to be part of that ecosystem. By offering watch together features, it encourages shared moments, much like watching a show with friends.

However, this is not just about replication. Instagram is adapting its core strengths—short-form video and visual discovery—to a new context. The channels feature, for instance, acts like a TV station for specific interests, from cooking to travel.

In addition, the move could boost engagement. When users watch content on a big screen, they are more likely to stay longer and interact differently. This could lead to new advertising opportunities and deeper community building.

What This Means for Creators and Viewers

For creators, Instagram for TV offers a new canvas. Content designed for horizontal viewing can reach audiences in a more cinematic way. Viewers, meanwhile, get a richer experience, especially for group settings like parties or family time.

Nevertheless, there are challenges. The app is currently limited to Samsung TVs in the US, with no word on global rollout or other brands. Additionally, not all Instagram features are available—shopping and DMs are absent for now.

To stay updated, check our guide on Instagram TV updates and availability. As the platform evolves, expect more integrations with smart home devices.

In conclusion, Instagram for TV is a strategic step toward making social media a living room staple. By focusing on shared viewing, horizontal video, and curated channels, it offers a fresh way to connect with content and each other. Whether you’re a casual scroller or a dedicated creator, this expansion opens new possibilities for watching together.

Instagram Plus: A New Subscription to Unlock Exclusive Features and Deeper Connections

Instagram has officially unveiled a new subscription tier called Instagram Plus, designed to give users more control over their experience. This paid plan introduces exclusive tools for self-expression, deeper interactions with friends, and personalized customization options. But what exactly does this mean for the average user? Let’s break it down.

What Is Instagram Plus and How Does It Work?

Instagram Plus is a premium subscription that unlocks a set of features not available in the free version. It aims to enhance how you express yourself, connect with your inner circle, and tailor your app to your preferences. Instagram Plus is currently rolling out to select markets, with a broader launch expected soon. Users can subscribe monthly or annually, depending on their region.

This move aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to diversify revenue streams through subscriptions, similar to what we’ve seen with Facebook and its premium offerings. However, Instagram is positioning this as a way to enrich the user experience rather than just removing ads.

Exclusive Features of Instagram Plus

Enhanced Self-Expression Tools

One of the standout aspects of Instagram Plus is the expanded creative toolkit. Subscribers gain access to exclusive filters, augmented reality (AR) effects, and advanced editing capabilities within Stories and Reels. This means you can craft more unique and polished content without relying on third-party apps. Additionally, a new “Focus Mode” for Stories lets you highlight specific elements with professional-grade blur effects.

Deeper Connections with Friends

Instagram Plus also introduces features to strengthen bonds with your closest friends. A new “Close Friends Plus” tier allows you to create multiple private groups with shared content, such as collaborative playlists or exclusive photo albums. You can also see when friends are actively engaging with your posts in real-time, fostering more immediate interactions. This builds on the existing Instagram ecosystem but adds a layer of exclusivity.

Customization and Control

Customization is a major selling point. With Instagram Plus, you can change the app icon, choose from different color themes, and even rearrange the navigation bar. This level of personalization extends to the feed: subscribers can prioritize posts from specific friends or mute suggested content for longer periods. In addition, a new “Smart Archive” feature automatically organizes your past posts into curated collections based on themes or dates.

How Instagram Plus Compares to Other Social Subscriptions

Instagram is not the first platform to introduce a paid tier. Twitter (now X) offers X Premium, while Snapchat has Snapchat+. However, Instagram Plus differentiates itself by focusing on creative expression and social intimacy rather than just verification or ad-free browsing. For instance, while X Premium emphasizes blue checkmarks and longer posts, Instagram Plus prioritizes visual tools and community features.

This means that if you’re a content creator or someone who values deep connections, Instagram Plus might offer more tangible benefits. On the other hand, casual users may find the free version sufficient for their needs.

Should You Subscribe to Instagram Plus?

Deciding whether to subscribe depends on your usage habits. If you frequently create Stories, engage with close friends through DMs, or want more control over your interface, Instagram Plus could be a worthwhile investment. However, for those who primarily scroll through the feed and post occasionally, the free features may already meet your needs.

Ultimately, Instagram Plus represents a shift toward a more personalized and premium social media experience. As the platform continues to evolve, we can expect even more exclusive features to roll out. For now, it’s an intriguing option for power users looking to get more out of their Instagram journey.

To stay updated on the latest developments, check out our guide on how to maximize Instagram Plus features and explore how Instagram Plus compares to Snapchat+.

KATSEYE and Larray Team Up on Instagram’s ‘Close Friends Only’ Podcast: EP Teases, Choreography, and More

Instagram’s Close Friends Only podcast just dropped a must-hear episode featuring global pop group KATSEYE and guest host Larray. In this lively conversation, the artists open up about their creative process, tease their upcoming EP, and even break down the viral PINKY UP choreography. If you’re a fan of K-pop-inspired music, dance trends, or behind-the-scenes stories, this episode is your new audio obsession.

What Is the ‘Close Friends Only’ Podcast?

Instagram launched the Close Friends Only series as a space for intimate, unfiltered chats with creators and celebrities. Each episode dives deep into personal stories, career milestones, and the inspirations driving today’s top talent. The show’s format feels like a private conversation among friends—raw, honest, and full of surprises. For this installment, Larray steps in as guest host, bringing his signature humor and sharp questions to the table.

KATSEYE Shares Creative Inspiration Behind Their Sound

During the podcast, KATSEYE members revealed what fuels their artistry. They cited everything from classic R&B to modern K-pop as influences, blending genres to create a fresh, genre-defying sound. “We want every track to feel like a journey,” one member explained. The group also credited their global fanbase for pushing them to experiment more. This candid peek into their creative process shows why KATSEYE resonates with millions.

Teasing the Upcoming EP

Fans hungry for new music got a treat when KATSEYE dropped hints about their upcoming EP. Without giving too much away, they described it as “a collection of stories we’ve lived.” The EP promises to mix high-energy bangers with emotional ballads, showcasing the group’s vocal range and songwriting depth. Larray pressed for details, but the members kept just enough mystery to build anticipation. Mark your calendars—this release could be their biggest yet.

Breaking Down the PINKY UP Choreography

One of the episode’s highlights was a live tutorial of the PINKY UP dance routine. KATSEYE walked Larray through the key moves, explaining how the choreography mirrors the song’s playful lyrics. The dance, which has already spawned countless TikTok covers, combines sharp hand gestures with smooth body rolls. “It’s all about confidence and having fun,” a member noted. Want to learn it? Head to Instagram to watch the full breakdown.

Why This Episode Matters for Fans

Beyond the music and dance, the podcast offers a rare glimpse into KATSEYE’s personalities. They discuss everything from their pre-show rituals to their favorite snacks on tour. Larray’s hosting style keeps the vibe light but meaningful, drawing out stories that fans rarely hear. For anyone following the group’s rise, this episode feels like hanging out with them in the studio. Check out our related article for more on their journey.

How to Watch or Listen

You can stream the full episode on Instagram’s Close Friends Only podcast page. New episodes drop weekly, so subscribe to catch future guests. Meanwhile, KATSEYE continues to build momentum with their PINKY UP single and upcoming tour dates. Don’t miss the chance to see them live—tickets are selling fast. For more insights on podcast trends, explore our guide to Instagram’s audio features.

In short, this collaboration between KATSEYE and Larray proves that Instagram’s podcast format is perfect for authentic artist-fan connections. Whether you’re here for the music, the dance, or the laughs, this episode delivers on all fronts. Tune in now and join the conversation.