TikTok to reveal its algorithm, calls out Facebook for launching copycat products

The Indian government banned TikTok last month citing security reasons. The viral video app is under major scrutiny in the US as well, one of its biggest international markets. TikTok CEO Kevin Mayer has announced that the company will make its algorithm code and moderations publicly available.

Kevin Mayer who recently moved from Disney to TikTok wrote in a blog post how TikTok “brought a unique and intuitive interface”. He also acknowledged the fact that TikTok like other platforms has received scrutiny but more so due to its Chinese origins. To hopefully tackle this situation, TikTok is launching its ‘Transparency and Accountability Center’ for moderation and data practices.

Through this TikTok will allow experts to monitor the platform’s moderation policies in real-time. It is also allowing experts to examine the “actual code” that powers TikTok’s algorithm. Mayer in the blog post also mentioned that other platforms follow suit for a “fair” industry. He also talked about direct competitors like Facebook which recently launched the TikTok-like Reels feature on Instagram.

“To those who wish to launch competitive products, we say bring it on. Facebook is even launching another copycat product, Reels (tied to Instagram), after their other copycat Lasso failed quickly. But let's focus our energies on fair and open competition in service of our consumers, rather than maligning attacks by our competitor – namely Facebook – disguised as patriotism and designed to put an end to our very presence in the US,” Mayer said.

Mayer hopes this move will help TikTok survive in the US and not lose ground. The company had also announced a $200 million fund for TikTok creators in the US. TikTok already helps its popular creators find advertising deals, and even with Hollywood talent agencies. With the new fund, TikTok creators will be able to earn directly from the platform.