What you need to know
- TikTok is rumored to be preparing to compete with Instagram by developing a new app called “TikTok Photos”.
- It is speculated that the TikTok Photos app could allow existing TikTok users to import or sync publicly shared photos from TikTok into the new app.
- TikTok Photos is reportedly in development for Android and iOS, with an expected launch “soon.”
TikTok may be about to challenge Instagram with a new app in the works called “TikTok Photos.”
TheSpAndroid’s AssembleDebug came across code in the latest update to the TikTok app, suggesting an imminent release of an Instagram-like photo-sharing feature (via Android Authority ). Numerous mentions of “TikTok Photos” were discovered in version 33.8.4 (com.zhiliaoapp.musically) of the TikTok app.
Phrases like “Open TikTok photos,” “Share this post with TikTok photos,” and “Reach other like-minded people who enjoy photo posts” were found in several code strings, hinting at the features and functionality of the upcoming photo-sharing service.
The rumored app is expected to allow current TikTok users to start their TikTok Photos journey by importing or syncing photos they’ve already shared publicly on TikTok.
The leaker also posted images that could be the logo for the TikTok Photos app. The logo appears to be a red “P” and maintains the same color scheme as the original TikTok app.
The post mentions that TikTok Photos is in development for both Android and iOS, and is expected to launch “soon.”
If a dedicated TikTok Photos app is indeed in development, it could be poised to compete with Instagram. The irony lies in the fact that Instagram introduced its short-form vertical video feature, Reels, in response to TikTok’s worldwide popularity.
TikTok established its widely popular social media platform by focusing on short videos, a trend that has since spread to YouTube and other popular apps.
While TikTok currently allows users to share multiple photos via slideshow videos, it appears the company is gearing up to provide a more dedicated photo sharing experience with the potential app.
The introduction of a standalone TikTok Photos app isn’t entirely unexpected, especially given that TikTok has already included a “photo mode” for photos within the main platform.
It’s possible that the TikTok-branded photo app could open up more opportunities in Western markets. This could be a strategic move, especially given the potential threat of TikTok facing a new ban in the US