This archive report was first published on 17 July 2020.
Published on July 17, 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought about a revolution in the way people interact with technology. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat, and Pinterest have seen a significant increase in active users and time spent on the app.
However, the biggest beneficiary of this pandemic has been TikTok, a Chinese-owned app launched in late 2016. According to research by the School of Automation and Information Engineering of Si Chuan University, TikTok has become the most frequently downloaded app in the world, with over a billion users across the globe and hundreds of millions of users in Africa alone.
Despite its popularity, TikTok's business model remains unclear, particularly when it comes to the distribution of royalties for artists whose music is used on the app and how creators are paid. This has led to concerns about the sustainability of a career on the platform, with many content creators struggling to make a living from their online fame.
However, for some users, TikTok has provided a platform for creativity and self-expression, with many users using the app to showcase their talents and connect with others. The app's 'micro-narrative' story model has also made it a popular choice for users who want to share short, snappy videos with their followers.
But the pandemic has also raised concerns about the impact of social media on mental health, with many users reporting feelings of anxiety and loneliness. The app's algorithm has also been criticized for promoting content that is often shallow and superficial, rather than promoting meaningful and engaging interactions.
Despite these concerns, TikTok remains a popular choice for many users, particularly younger users who are drawn to the app's fun and entertaining content. However, as the pandemic continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how social media platforms like TikTok will adapt to the changing needs and concerns of their users.
