Gone are the days of not being able to watch Instagram Reels on the big screen. Meta recently announced that the Instagram app will now be compatible with TVs.
The test phase of Instagram Reels for TV was released on December 16.
Key Features of Instagram Reels for TV
With TV compatibility now available, users can now enjoy a seamless watching experience:
- TV remote navigation
- Side bar video stats
- The ability to “like” videos and read comments
- Channels organized by interests (e.g., Music, Sports Highlights)
- Account switching (up to five accounts per device)
- PG-13 content by default
- Teen safety compatibility (e.g., mandatory PG-13, usage limits, and sleep mode)
The Inconvenience of Watching Reels on TV Before
The release of Instagram Reels for TV means users no longer have to awkwardly cast their phone screen to their TV just to watch Reels on a larger screen.
Watching Reels via casting typically resulted in poor video quality and required the watcher to inconveniently swipe to the next video with their phone. This also meant users weren’t able to use their phones for other purposes, like checking their emails, when casting Reels onto their TV as it would disrupt the video and cast whatever they were doing instead.
Privacy concerns for the phone user were also an issue. Personal notifications or texts could pop up on the television from the phone’s shared screen. What’s more, a phone call could interrupt the entire casting session for the duration of the call.
These inconveniences get addressed with the release of Instagram Reels for TV.
Who is Reels for TV Available For?
Currently, Reels is only compatible with Amazon Fire TVs.
Users can gain access to the free streaming service by downloading the Instagram app on their TV, logging into their Instagram account, and browsing different channels with their remote.
Meta has plans to expand Reels for TV to other devices. By early 2026, they anticipate Reels will be available via other major television brands, including Apple, Samsung, and LG smart TVs.
Other new features will also eventually be available. These include using your phone as a remote and sharing feeds with friends.
What People Think About Instagram Reels for TV
Instagram took to X to announce its new offering:
Introducing Instagram for TV 📺🍿
— Instagram (@instagram) December 16, 2025
We’re starting a test that brings reels to a bigger screen, so you can watch with your friends. Rolling out today on @amazonfiretv in the US in English to start. pic.twitter.com/DTB51q7hVp
Positive Reactions:
- “Reels on the big screen? 🍿📺 Finally, binge with friends without squinting at your phone 😎” – @Shottokee
- “wait, so now I can binge reels with my couch and snacks? finally 😂” – @JammyJammyc12
- “The future is unfolding” – @mayGodsay
Negative Reactions:
- “Why? For what reason? Nobody is going to use this in their life.” – @deeivihh
- “Y’all really want people to destroy everyone’s brain scrolling endlessly😔” – @Pyaku_rel
- “But Meta shut down Facebook TV ages ago 😂 Give it time; it will shut down later..” – @AKOz100
Instagram’s New “Your Algorithm”
Meta also recently changed Instagram’s hidden algorithm to “Your Algorithm” on December 10.
Your Algorithm allows users to curate their algorithm based on their chosen interests. They can also choose to hide certain genres of content.
How the New Algorithm Benefits Instagram Reels for TV
The new algorithm is ideal for Instagram’s release of Reels for TV for multiple reasons.
A curated algorithm means improved relevance and predictability in what a user watches. It also gives users the ability to filter out unwanted content, which can ultimately make for a better watching experience. Less time scrolling through what they don’t want and more time to enjoy the content that they do want.
How to Avoid Getting Muted By the New Algorithm
For brands wanting to expand their online presence, the new algorithm can create some challenges.
If users toggle off “fashion” from their personal algorithm, fashion brands and creators will be less likely to show up on their feeds. This could result in businesses getting “muted” even before their content gets seen by some users.
Users can also use the new algorithm to prioritize certain content, which could drown out other content.
To succeed on Instagram with this new algorithm change, brands must prioritize niche authority over broad reach. Avenue Z has several solutions to help keep businesses visible online, helping them establish relevance, rebuild authority, and create quality content that’s less “skippable.”
Adapting Your Brand to Instagram’s Changes
Avenue Z believes in the power of “convergence,” where PR, performance media, and AI are integrated to help brands “win” in the new digital space.
Their AI optimization services ensure AI doesn’t wrongfully interpret your brand, which can lead to false mutes by the new algorithm. They can also help curate creative content for your brand to drive deeper engagement and ensure high-quality resolution for TV viewing. Additionally, they have PR and media relations services to help you get recognized as an authoritative figure and keep the algorithm from associating negative keywords with your brand.Avenue Z is eager to help your brand succeed in an AI-led digital space. With algorithms and platforms frequently changing, adapting is the only way to survive.
Reach out to Avenue Z today to build influence across multiple channels.
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