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10.07.2022 16:35

TikTok – what is it, how does it work and is it worth using? Everything you need to know about TikTok

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What is TikTok? Is it worth using this type of application and where does the TikTok phenomenon come from? Below you will find answers to these and other questions, as well as learn how to create and use a TikToku account. 

TikTok – what is it? Basic information about the application

If you want to know what TikTok is and where it came from, you’ve come to the right place. Simply put, the TikTok mobile app combines the functionality of Snapchat with Instagram and Spotify or Tidal – it allows users to create and share short videos on any topic. Previously, it operated as Musical.ly, and in August 2018, the application was acquired by the Chinese company ByteDance, and its users transferred to TikTok.

what is tiktok
Source: https://apps.apple.com/

The app is based on the same concept as Musical.ly but has a much wider scope and not only focuses on lip syncing with music – it offers users a wide selection of sounds and song snippets, as well as the ability to add special effects and filters. There is also an option to directly upload videos created on the phone. Users can create a variety of movies – from challenges, through dance and music performances, to funny recordings or gags.

If you want to use the TikTok app, you must first download it from Google Play, App Store or download the program to your computer. After installing it, you need to create a free account, using one of the options – you can connect TikTok with your Google, Facebook, Twitter account, you also have the option to log in the traditional way using a phone number or e-mail address. After that, you will be automatically redirected to the home page where the latest video will start showing.

Related: Instagram without an account – how to view other people’s profiles, photos and stories?

TikTok online and app – how can you use TikTok?

TikTok is available in three versions – Android and iPhone of course, but interestingly, the TikTok application for the computer has been created. If you want to enjoy it on your laptop, you need to download another software first – Bluestacks. Once you’ve downloaded Bluestacks, install TikTok with it. The only slight inconvenience when using the portal via Windows is the need to run both programs each time.

As you know, the developers of TikTok have created versions for mobile phones, both with iOS and Android – of course, you can download them from the App Store and Play Store respectively. Interestingly, the owner of TikTok, thanks to cooperation with the Indian manufacturer Smartisan, decided to create his own smartphone, specially designed for the application. At the same time, he announced that Smartisan Jianguo Pro 3 is just the beginning of production.

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You can also browse this social platform from your browser. The moment you choose to visit the TikTok website online, you don’t need to create an account or log in. In this case, the search for public accounts is also available, while when it comes to private accounts, you will not find them without logging in. 

TikTok stormed the phones of young people, but also of others who want to shine on the Internet. It is used not only by people who simply enjoy creating videos, but also celebrities, youtubers, podcasters, and even politicians or social activists.

An app from an ordinary source of entertainment has turned into a kind of straightforward path to popularity. TikTok allows you to establish relationships with other users, but on different terms than in the case of other social networks. On the home screen, you will find “for you” content that the app found most valuable and in line with your interests. TikTok’s exact algorithm is unknown, but it promotes content that best engages viewers. Thanks to this, you can reach up to millions of recipients, having only a few followers at the same time. Besides, TikTok is based on the well-known Musiacal.ly and supposedly took over its fame.

How to use TikTok – a short step-by-step instruction

If you want to use TikTok, you must have an account – right after logging in you can browse the content selected for you by the application or search for a specific user. The interface is very intuitive and clear. After creating your profile, go to the “Me” section and then click on the three dots in the top right corner which will take you to the settings. There you will find all options regarding preferences and security.

By clicking on the “home” icon, the application will take you back to the home page where you can view new content. The “discover” option displays popular videos with specific keywords, the “incoming” section contains messages received on TikTok, and “me” also allows you to edit your profile. If you want to like a video, as with Instagram, all you have to do is touch the heart and click on the bubble to comment on it.

How TikTok Works – Description of Basic Features

In TikTok, a video can last from 15 to 60 seconds. In the application you will find all the necessary tools that allow you to create a creative video – filters, effects and an extensive music library. If you want to get started with TikTok, start at the home page, where you’ll find videos of users you’re following at the top. You scroll the screen by moving content up or down. On the right side you will find statistics, as well as interactions – the number of likes, comments and shares. 

The user profile is somewhat similar to the one on Instagram. There you will find your name or alias, which you can change at any time, your profile picture and statistics – the number of followers and who you follow, as well as the total number of likes for all submitted content. There is space at the bottom for a brief description, and below is the content that the user likes and that he has added. 

You can use the program from the TikTok mobile app and through the TikTok website, but some features are only available in the app. Moreover, some services and options are not available in certain regions and countries. The basic functionality available to everyone is the ability to change the language of the application, but also the content displayed – go to the “me” screen, then to the settings, content preferences and finally click “add language”.

On TikTok, you also have the option of hiding content you liked. In the “Me” section, click the three dots in the upper right corner, select the “privacy and security” option, and then scroll to the bottom – select who can see the videos you like. When viewing content, when you like someone else’s TikTok audio, you can take advantage of it. In the lower right corner you will find an icon that looks like a plate. If you click on it, you will find the “use sound” option.

How to use TikTok in practice – functional description 

Videos on TikTok play automatically with muted sound. To pause a video, simply click on it, then touch the display again to resume playback. If you like a clip, you can like it by pressing the heart or making a comment. To do this, you must be logged in. Signing up for an account also allows you to record and add your own videos, which is child’s play! All you need to do is press the “+” sign at the bottom of the screen, select the desired effects, and then start recording with the red button. 

If you want to delete content you’ve added, go to your profile, select the one you want to delete, and then click the three dots on the right side of the screen. A list will appear with various options, including you will find a trash can icon. Now confirm your decision and you’re done. Other features include the ability to save the video to your device, add it to your favorites, share it on other social networks, via message or as a GIF.

What are the TikTok age restrictions?

According to TikTok, the website is intended for people over the age of thirteen. Moreover, some of the features are not available to users under a certain age. The truth is that most young people have a telephone with Internet access from early childhood. Many of them are not aware of how many dangers may be caused by reckless use of the telephone. Inadequate data processing and the unauthorized use of content are just some of them. Therefore, even if the child can legally use the application, it is worth doing it under the care of the parent.

There are more and more tiktokers every day. Certainly, the original names on TikTok attract viewers – the nickname must be unique, as in one of the most famous tiktokers – Baby Ariel, which is watched by over 35 million users. She is an American singer and actress, and her campaign against TikTok hate, #ArielMovement, was an immediate success. Later it launched an anti-trolling movement. People magazine appreciated her support in the #HackHarassment initiative to stop Internet hate.

Another person who has achieved great success in social media in just a year is Charli D’Amelio. Like most of the stars of TikTok, Charli makes all kinds of films, but dancing is her specialty. Thanks to her online fame, she danced on stage with Bebe Rexha at the Jonas Brothers concert, appeared on The Tonight Show and was offered to play one of the roles in the animated film StarDog and TurboCat. 

As you can see, anyone can become famous on TikTok – it doesn’t matter who you are, but what you do. TikTok is also about freedom of choice – you can either just watch the content or unleash your creativity. Surely everyone will find something for themselves there.

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