Meta is reportedly testing a new interface for Facebook and Instagram that would open the apps directly to full-screen vertical video feeds, bypassing traditional home screens and friend updates. The change, first reported by PetaPixel on October 9, 2026, signals a continued push to emulate TikTok’s engaging, scroll-first video experience.

For content creators, this shift could significantly alter how audiences discover content. By prioritizing vertical video at launch, Meta aims to increase watch time and engagement—key metrics that favor short-form, algorithm-driven content. Creators who already produce Reels or short videos may see improved visibility, while those reliant on static images or long-form posts may need to adapt their strategies.

The test reflects Meta’s ongoing effort to close the gap with TikTok, which continues to dominate short-form video consumption, especially among younger demographics. Internal data from Meta has shown that Reels now accounts for over half of time spent on Instagram, making this UI shift a logical next step in reinforcing video as the core experience.

While the test is currently limited and not yet rolled out to all users, its existence confirms Meta’s commitment to evolving its platforms around vertical video. Creators are advised to monitor performance analytics closely during this phase and consider optimizing content for immediate impact in a full-screen, sound-on environment.

No official details about timing, regional availability, or creator monetization implications have been released as of the report date. However, the move underscores a broader industry trend: social platforms are increasingly designing around video-first user behavior, requiring creators to stay agile in format and storytelling approaches.