Short-form video-sharing platform TikTok has introduced a new feature to its social network, enabling support for group chats to ease content distribution among family members, friends, and colleagues.
The ByteDance Ltd.-owned app said each group chat will accommodate a maximum of 32 people and will only be available to individuals ages 16 and above to protect those aged 15 and below.
Group messaging can be created by tapping the “Chat” button at the top of the Inbox and selecting “More options.” Users can then choose which people to add to the group and tap “Start group chat.” They can also select invite and hit “Join group” to connect to an existing group chat.
Everyone can be included in group chats, provided they have at least one mutual friend or follower joined as a member; otherwise, they will have no access to the group. Teen users will also be required to check and approve each new joiner when they create group chats.
In addition to group messaging, the app will launch custom stickers in Direct Messages for users 18 and up, allowing them to create and upload personalized stickers that all can use on the platform.
TikTok Simplifies Video-Sharing for Users
TikTok’s new group chat feature provides users with a more convenient means to share short-form videos from its platform.
Prior to its own group messaging function, videos from the app could only be shared in group chats on other messaging apps such as Meta Platforms Inc.’s Messenger and WhatsApp or Apple Inc.’s Messages.
The move signaled TikTok’s possible aim to further grow as a social network by enhancing users’ capabilities to connect and communicate with families and friends within the platform.
Beyond sharing links in group chats, the app said the new feature would offer a shared viewing experience, indicating that members can watch and react together to videos in real time.
The major question now is whether the new addition will prompt TikTok users to switch their group messaging app.
