Chinese tech giant ByteDance appears set to challenge Instagram with the imminent launch of a new app focused on photo content. This announcement follows leaks and discoveries of changes in the code of the TikTok application by the specialized media AssembleDebug. The application in question would be integrated into TikTok, thus making it possible to synchronize content between the two platforms.
Hidden changes in the TikTok app code
On Monday, March 11, AssembleDebug revealed that several changes had been made to the code of ByteDance's flagship application, mentioning a new feature under the name "TikTok Photos.".
The APK (Android Package) code snippets presented show a strong resemblance to what Instagram currently offers in terms of functionality and content sharing.
An internal message announcing the future launch of TikTok Photos was also discovered, thus marking a desire to compete severely with the American giant for sharing and distributing photo content.
An ambitious strategy to expand TikTok's influence
The Chinese company's decision further demonstrates its power and the fact that it does not intend to remain confined to the field of video with TikTok. This new approach seems to be the result of a strategy of diversification and expansion of the platform in order to capture more market share and reach a wider audience.
Currently, Instagram is the leader in the online photo content segment with more than a billion monthly active users, while TikTok has “only” 1 billion users over the same period, according to the latest available data.
Towards total integration with TikTok?
One of the main questions that arises is the integration between TikTok Photos and the main TikTok app. Based on available information, it appears that users will have the ability to sync their content between the two apps with a simple share button.
Videos posted to TikTok may be visible on TikTok Photos, and vice versa. However, these features have yet to be officially confirmed by ByteDance, which has not yet commented on these revelations and rumors.