Instagram Explore Overhaul Integrates Stories, Shopping, and IGTV

Instagram revamps its Explore tab to include auto-playing Stories and prominent portals for Shopping and IGTV. The update aims to help users dive deeper into niche interests while showcasing the platform's key growth areas.

16 May 2019 • 1 min read

Instagram expands its Explore tab by introducing Stories to the grid for the first time. Because Stories do not receive Likes, the algorithm personalizes this section by showing accounts similar to the ones users already Like and Follow. Tapping an auto-playing Story clip opens a seamless, topically similar queue, allowing users to swipe through related content like a continuous feed of dog videos.

The update also features a redesigned navigation bar that highlights Shopping and IGTV as primary categories. These sections now appear as large square portals directly inside the Explore grid. Tapping the Shopping shortcut reveals specific product filters like Clothing and Beauty, while the IGTV portal opens a new vertical scrolling discovery grid that replaces the older horizontal carousel.

Instagram frames these changes as a way to show the full breadth of content relevant to user interests. By making IGTV and Shopping central to the Explore experience, the platform signals a strong commitment to these features despite IGTV's lackluster first year. Ultimately, this more immersive discovery process keeps users engaged longer and increases their exposure to advertisements.

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