Snap has introduced a native app for the iPad, arriving 13 years after its initial launch on the iPhone and Android devices. This move could set a precedent for other social media giants, particularly those hesitant about this transition, to follow suit.
For years, users have clamored for dedicated WhatsApp and Instagram apps for the iPad. Despite the iPad’s robust capabilities and large display, these requests remain unfulfilled, compelling users to resort to workarounds. With Snapchat now offering native support for the iPad, users can fully utilize the device’s expansive screen, especially with new features integrated seamlessly.
Previously, using Snapchat on an iPad meant dealing with a suboptimal experience — the app wasn’t optimized for the tablet, leading to a reduced resolution and wide borders. The update eradicates these issues, as the app now perfectly fits the iPad’s screen without unused spaces. However, the interface is locked to portrait mode, so rotation isn’t currently an option even if enabled on the device.
The new iPad app offers a larger canvas for creating Snaps and allows users to view more friends on the second and fourth tabs. This marks a notable enhancement since Snapchat’s original release on the iPhone in 2011. The app’s new iPad version also comes equipped with a variety of AI-powered features, including an AI assistant to help users explore these capabilities. The app is free to download from the App Store for all iPads running iPadOS 13 and later.
Snapchat’s native iPad app might serve as a catalyst for WhatsApp and Instagram to develop their own applications for the device. While using these platforms on a larger screen is a matter of personal preference, having them across multiple devices could enhance the user experience. There is currently no confirmation on whether that development is underway, but further updates will be shared as they become available.
