Exclusive sources reveal TikTok is building a new standalone messaging app. This app could function separately from the main TikTok video platform. TikTok wants users to communicate more easily outside the short video feeds. The company hopes this new app will keep users engaged longer. TikTok also aims to compete directly with popular messaging services like WhatsApp and Messenger.
(Exclusive: Inside TikTok’s Development of a Standalone Messaging App)
Internal discussions at TikTok suggest the app is still in early development. The exact launch date remains uncertain. Features under consideration include text chats, group messaging, and video calling. Users might also send photos and short videos within the app. TikTok is exploring ways to connect this messaging app back to TikTok profiles.
This move signals TikTok’s ambition to become a broader social platform. Messaging is a key feature missing from TikTok’s current offering. Adding a dedicated chat app addresses this gap. It provides users a way to talk without leaving the TikTok ecosystem entirely. TikTok parent company ByteDance already operates successful messaging apps in China.
Some industry experts see this as a strategic push for more user time. Messaging apps are known for high daily usage. TikTok wants a piece of that valuable activity. Concerns exist about user privacy and data security. TikTok faces ongoing scrutiny over its data handling practices globally. A new messaging service will likely face similar questions.
TikTok already has basic messaging within its main app. The experience is often criticized as limited. Users frequently switch to other apps for better chat features. TikTok’s new standalone app aims to fix this problem. It wants users to stay within its own services for all communication needs.
(Exclusive: Inside TikTok’s Development of a Standalone Messaging App)
The development aligns with TikTok’s efforts to expand its services. TikTok Shop for e-commerce is another recent addition. The messaging app represents another step towards becoming a super-app. Competition in social messaging is intense. Established players dominate the market. TikTok must convince users to adopt another messaging tool. The app’s success depends heavily on seamless integration with TikTok accounts. User adoption will be closely watched.
