TikTok Global: 抖音全球化
TikTok, or 抖音 as it is known in China, is a mobile app that has taken the world by storm. Owned by Beijing-based ByteDance, the app has quickly become one of the most popular social media platforms worldwide. However, the journey to global success was not easy for TikTok. In this article, we will explore the various strategies used by ByteDance to make TikTok a global phenomenon.
Expanding beyond China
In order to expand beyond its home market of China, ByteDance began to launch localized versions of the app in other countries. In 2017, TikTok was launched in the United States, and by the end of the year, it had already surpassed 100 million downloads. The app began to gain popularity among younger audiences in other countries as well, such as India, Japan, and South Korea.
Acquiring Musical.ly
One major turning point for TikTok's global success was its acquisition of Musical.ly in 2018. Musical.ly was a Chinese social media app that had become popular in the United States, Europe, and other countries. ByteDance merged Musical.ly with TikTok, bringing its significant user base over to the new platform. This move also helped to solidify TikTok's position as a platform for short-form videos with music and lip-syncing.
Growth through User-Generated Content
TikTok's global success can be attributed in part to its focus on user-generated content. Unlike other social media platforms that rely on professionally produced content, TikTok's algorithm prioritizes user-generated content. This has helped to create a sense of community on the platform, with users feeling a sense of ownership and investment in the content they create and share.
Localized Content
Another important strategy used by ByteDance to make TikTok a global sensation is its focus on localized content. ByteDance employs local content moderators, who are responsible for ensuring that the content on TikTok complies with local laws and cultural norms. By doing so, ByteDance has been able to build trust and relationships with local communities, which has contributed to the app's success in various markets.
Conclusion
TikTok's global success can be attributed to a range of factors, including its focus on user-generated content, localized content, and strategic partnerships and acquisitions. Despite facing various challenges, TikTok has managed to become one of the most popular social media platforms worldwide. With its continued focus on innovation and community, it is likely that TikTok will continue to grow and evolve in the years to come.