iPad Users Report Changed Instagram Reels Display

Some iPad users say Instagram Reels changed after a recent app update, with videos appearing in a square layout, surrounded by large black borders, or cropped when opened from certain parts of the app.

Where the display changes

The reported issue affects Reels opened from the search page or from a person’s profile. One user says videos on the search page are no longer full-sized and can cut off animation and other artwork. Another says tapping a Reel in a profile now opens it in a square view instead of the previous full-screen presentation.

One user says Reels still appear normal when opened through the main Reels tab. That suggests the display may differ depending on where the video is opened, although the available examples are too limited to establish how broadly that pattern applies.

What remains unclear

Users associate the change with a recent Instagram update, but the evidence does not establish whether the update caused it or whether Instagram intentionally changed the iPad layout. It also does not show whether the black borders, square view, and cropping result from the same issue.

The available information does not identify a reliable setting, fix, or way to reverse the change. Anyone seeing the altered layout may need to wait for more information before knowing whether it is temporary or intended.

Common questions

Can I restore full-size Reels on an iPad?

The available information does not establish a reliable way to restore the previous full-size view or reverse the change.

Why do Reels have black borders or appear square?

Users have observed those display changes, but the evidence does not establish what caused them.

Are Reels normal in the main Reels tab?

One user says the main Reels tab still displays videos normally, while Reels opened from search or profiles appear differently.