TikTok
Template:Infobox online service
TikTok is a short-form video hosting service owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. It hosts a variety of user-submitted videos, ranging in duration from 15 seconds to 10 minutes. The platform is known for its personalized For You feed, algorithm-driven recommendations, and viral content that often spreads across global social media.
Launched in September 2016 as Douyin for the Chinese market, TikTok was introduced to international markets in 2017. In August 2018, it merged with another app, Musical.ly, significantly boosting its popularity outside China.
By 2020, TikTok became one of the most downloaded apps in the world, and as of 2023, it has over 1 billion monthly active users.
History
- 2016: ByteDance launched Douyin in China.
- 2017: TikTok released internationally.
- 2018: Merged with Musical.ly.
- 2019–2020: Rapid global growth; controversies over privacy and data security.
- 2020–2023: Expansion into e-commerce, TikTok LIVE, and increased regulatory scrutiny in several countries.
Features
- Short-form Videos: Lengths from 15 seconds up to 10 minutes.
- For You Page (FYP): AI-powered recommendation feed.
- Duet and Stitch: Features allowing users to interact with or remix other users’ videos.
- Filters and Effects: Large library of AR effects, sounds, and editing tools.
- TikTok LIVE: Livestreaming feature.
- E-commerce: Integrated shopping and affiliate marketing.
User Base
As of 2023, TikTok has over 1 billion monthly active users, with large audiences in the United States, India (before the ban), Indonesia, and Brazil. It is particularly popular among Generation Z.
Business Model
TikTok generates revenue through advertising, in-app purchases of coins for gifting, and integrated e-commerce features. Brands and influencers use the platform for marketing, contributing to a growing creator economy.
Controversies and Criticism
TikTok has been involved in controversies including:
- Data privacy and security concerns.
- Potential influence from the Chinese government.
- Allegations of spreading harmful content and misinformation.
- Bans or restrictions in several countries, including India and partial bans in the United States.