Instagram Rolls Out 'Blend': A New Shared Reels Feed Experience

Instagram has introduced a fresh social feature called Blend, aiming to enhance user interaction by creating a shared Reels feed between friends or within group chats. The move is part of Instagram’s broader strategy to carve a distinct identity in the short-form video space and stay competitive with platforms like TikTok.

What Is Instagram Blend?

Blend offers users a personalized collection of Reels that’s exclusive to you and a chosen friend or chat group. Once active, the feed refreshes daily with content tailored to everyone’s tastes—making it a fun and engaging way to explore Reels together.

“With this feature, the Meta-owned social media platform gives you a glimpse into the Reels you and your friends enjoy, while also creating a shared space to connect and uncover fresh content together.”

Notably, access to Blend is invitation-based, making the experience feel more intimate and customized.

How to Use Instagram Blend

Starting a Blend Session

“To start a Blend, open either a private or group DM and tap the new Blend icon at the top of the screen. From there, choose ‘Invite’ to select people from the chat to join in. The Blend will activate once at least one person accepts your invitation.”

Once active, Blend will curate a Reels feed reflecting the collective preferences of the chat members. If someone interacts with a Reel—likes, comments, or reacts—Instagram will notify you, encouraging further conversation within your DMs.

Returning to the Shared Feed

“You can return to your shared feed anytime by revisiting the DM and tapping the Blend icon again.”

This seamless navigation ensures that users can keep engaging with curated content at their convenience.

How to Leave an Instagram Blend

If you no longer wish to participate:

“To exit a Blend on Instagram, begin by opening the app and tapping either the paper plane or messenger icon. Next, select the chat containing the Blend you wish to leave. Once inside the chat, tap the Blend icon located in the top-right corner. Then, tap the three-dot menu at the top-right of the Blend screen and choose ‘Leave this Blend’ from the options.”

This provides flexibility for users who wish to pause or permanently exit the shared Reels experience.

Meta’s Strategic Timing Amid TikTok Uncertainty

The rollout of Blend comes as Meta, Instagram's parent company, is under increasing legal scrutiny over antitrust issues. Meanwhile, its key rival TikTok remains in a precarious situation in the United States.

“While Meta is also facing a legal lawsuit, its competition—TikTok’s—fate is yet to be decided for the US audience. As of now, the short-video streaming app is working in the US, but it can be banned any day. However, President Donald Trump is trying hard to cut a deal with the Chinese company.”

Trump recently extended TikTok's deadline by another 75 days, pushing the decision beyond April 2.

Instagram iPad App Finally in the Works

In addition to launching Blend, Instagram is also finally addressing one of its most-requested updates—a native iPad app.

“According to a recent report, Instagram is at last developing an app specifically designed for the iPad. An insider from within the company has disclosed that work is underway on a version tailored for tablets.”

Currently, iPad users rely on the scaled-up iPhone app, which offers a subpar experience due to UI limitations. While the timeline for this release remains unclear, its development marks a significant step toward optimizing Instagram across devices.

Summary: What Blend Means for Instagram’s Future

Instagram’s Blend feature isn't just about entertainment—it’s a strategic play in the ever-evolving social media war. With TikTok's future uncertain in the US and users demanding more customized, collaborative features, Instagram is positioning itself to fill the potential void. The iPad app announcement further signals Meta’s intent to refine its user experience across platforms.