Meta Brings Instagram to Samsung Smart TVs With Group-Friendly Viewing Options

Meta has expanded its Instagram for TV app to Samsung Smart TVs, making the platform available on one of the three largest connected TV ecosystems in the United States. The app, which previously launched on Amazon Fire TV and Google TV, is now rolling out to Samsung models from 2020 and newer across the country, according to digitaltrends.com.

digitaltrends.comInstagram for TV expands to Samsung Smart TVs with group viewing features

"Instagram for TV expands to Samsung Smart TVs with group viewing features"

The update brings Instagram Stories and creator channels to the big screen, with content tailored to viewer interests, Deadline reported. Meta is also testing two new features specifically for the TV experience: the ability to cast reels from a phone to the television, and a horizontal video format designed for landscape viewing on larger screens.

DeadlineInstagram for TV Launches on Samsung Smart TVs, Tests Casting and Horizontal Video

"Meta is also testing two new features: the ability to cast reels from a phone to the TV, and horizontal video format designed specifically for landscape viewing on larger screens."

This expansion positions Instagram for TV on the three biggest connected TV platforms in the country, according to digitaltrends.com, giving Meta a broad footprint in the living room. The group viewing features, including interest-based channels, are designed to make the app more social when watched on a shared screen rather than a personal phone. As Instagram continues to push into television, it remains to be seen how users will adapt to scrolling through reels and Stories on a display meant for passive, collective viewing.