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Will Upcoming Changes Turn Instagram Into A TikTok Clone?
Updates are rolling out for the grid layout and Reels length, while new editing tools clearly imitate those of the rival Chinese platform.
Instagram recently faced backlash for swapping its iconic square grid for rectangles, disrupting the aesthetic of thousands of carefully curated profiles. However, the Meta-owned platform isn’t stopping there, after announcing more incoming TikTok-like changes designed to give users greater control over their profiles.
“We launched a new tall grid on profiles this week and I got a lot of feedback, both positive and quite negative,” Instagram head Adam Mosseri shared in an Instagram caption on Monday. “The goal is a simpler, cleaner place that maintains, and even increases, creator control”.
Here are some of the details about further changes we can expect:
- Customizable Grids: Users will soon be able to tweak how their posts appear on the grid, including adjusting image crops and reordering posts entirely.
- Direct-To-Grid Posts: A new option will allow users to post directly to their profile grid without automatically adding it to their main feed.
- Highlights Relocation: Instagram’s Highlights feature will move from above the grid into a dedicated tab, while also becoming part of the profile grid itself.
- Longer Reels: Reels are getting a significant upgrade, with the maximum video length jumping from 90 seconds to 3 minutes.
The updates are part of Instagram’s ongoing effort to compete with TikTok, which narrowly avoided a US ban following a 75-day delay granted by President Donald Trump. With the Chinese video platform’s future remaining uncertain, Instagram seems eager to capture disillusioned users by offering features that feel increasingly similar to those of its rival.
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In fact, Instagram’s recent changes go beyond just the app’s layout: On Sunday, parent company Meta launched the standalone Edits app, a clear imitation of TikTok’s popular video-editing tool, CapCut. Additionally, Meta has been enticing creators with cash bonuses to encourage them to post their videos on Instagram and Facebook.
It’s clear Instagram is shifting its strategy to appeal to the short-form video crowd. Whether these changes will win over users or continue to spark discontent remains to be seen.
News
Alienware Just Announced Six New Gaming Monitors
The new models include three QD-OLED and three budget-friendly QHD options, expanding the company’s lineup for all gamers.
Alienware has just updated its gaming monitor lineup with six new additions, including the highly anticipated Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Monitor. The latest wave of releases is set to reach more gamers than ever, offering high-end QD-OLED displays alongside more budget-friendly options.
The latest displays clearly show that the company is doubling down on QD-OLED with three new models sporting the technology. A redesigned Alienware 34 Ultra-Wide QD-OLED Monitor is also making a return, further refining what is already a fan-favorite display.
A Unified Design: The AW30 Aesthetic
All six monitors feature Alienware’s new AW30 design language, first introduced at CES. The AW30 aesthetic brings a futuristic, minimalist look that unites the entire lineup under a cohesive visual identity.
Pushing QD-OLED Even Further
The refreshed Alienware 34 Ultra-Wide QD-OLED Monitor (AW3425DW) builds on its predecessor’s success with a 240Hz refresh rate (up from 175Hz) and HDMI 2.1 FRL support. It also gains G-SYNC Compatible certification alongside AMD FreeSync Premium Pro and VESA AdaptiveSync, ensuring ultra-smooth performance. With a WQHD (3440×1440) resolution and an 1800R curve, this display enhances immersion for both gaming and cinematic experiences.
For those who crave speed, the Alienware 27 280Hz QD-OLED Monitor (AW2725D) pairs a high refresh rate with QHD resolution, balancing sharp visuals with ultra-smooth gameplay. Meanwhile, the Alienware 27 4K QD-OLED Monitor (AW2725Q) delivers stunning clarity with an industry-leading pixel density of 166 PPI, making it the sharpest OLED or QD-OLED monitor available.
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Worried about OLED burn-in? Alienware’s entire QD-OLED lineup comes with a three-year limited warranty covering burn-in concerns, offering peace of mind for gamers investing in these high-end displays.
Bringing QHD To A Wider Audience
Alongside QD-OLED, Alienware is also releasing three new QHD gaming monitors aimed at more price-conscious gamers. The Alienware 34 Gaming Monitor (AW3425DWM), Alienware 32 Gaming Monitor (AW3225DM), and Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor (AW2725DM) provide a range of sizes and formats to suit different preferences:
- The Alienware 34 Gaming Monitor (AW3425DWM): An ultrawide (WQHD) option for a panoramic, immersive experience.
- The Alienware 32 Gaming Monitor (AW3225DM): A standard 16:9 panel for a traditional but expansive desktop setup.
- The Alienware 27 Gaming Monitor (AW2725DM): A 27” display offering the same performance in a more compact form factor.
All three gaming monitors feature a fast 180 Hz refresh rate, a 1ms gray-to-gray response time, and support for NVIDIA G-SYNC, AMD FreeSync, and VESA AdaptiveSync to eliminate screen tearing. Additionally, with 95% DCI-P3 color coverage and VESA DisplayHDR400 certification, these displays deliver vibrant colors and high dynamic range for lifelike visuals.
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