“TikTok is enhancing user interaction with the launch of a group chat feature that supports up to 32 members, along with the ability to send stickers in direct messages. These updates aim to improve the overall user experience on the platform”
As reported by Engadget on August 13, 2024, TikTok has rolled out a new group chat feature that allows up to 32 participants. This feature is currently available in select countries, offering users an enhanced way to connect and communicate. In addition to group chats, TikTok has also introduced the ability to send stickers within direct messages, adding a more dynamic and visual element to conversations.
Users can start a group chat on TikTok in two simple ways:
From the inbox, users can tap the “Chat” button or select a name from their message list, then click “More options” to choose the friends they want to add. After selecting the participants, they can press “Start group chat” to initiate the conversation.
Alternatively, a group chat can be started by sharing a post with multiple people. By tapping “Share” and then selecting “Create group chat,” users can choose the recipients, add a message if desired, and begin discussing the video.
Similar to direct messaging, group chats are not available to users under 16 years old. TikTok has implemented additional safety measures for users aged 16 to 17, ensuring they can only be added to a group chat by a mutual follower. If a teen receives an invitation to join a group chat, they can only accept it if there is at least one mutual friend in the group. Additionally, when a teen creates a group chat, TikTok prompts them to review and approve new participants.
To further enhance safety, TikTok offers tools for muting and blocking participants and allows users to report individual messages or entire conversations that violate Community Guidelines. The platform also limits the number of groups a user can create and the number of times a message can be forwarded.
TikTok also announced the much-anticipated addition of sticker support in direct messages, allowing users to interact more visually. This feature enables users to create and upload custom stickers, which are available for use in direct messages for users aged 18 and older.
These continuous feature updates reflect ByteDance’s ongoing efforts to improve the TikTok user experience. Earlier, on August 11, 2024, TikTok introduced the TikTok Spotlight feature, which uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify movies and TV shows from short video clips. Such upgrades are likely aimed at increasing user engagement on the platform, ultimately optimizing screen time and enhancing the value of targeted ads.
Given TikTok’s massive user base, these new features could potentially open up additional revenue streams for the platform, such as financial services, transaction fees, commissions from third-party services, and e-commerce (TikTok Shop).
What do you think about TikTok’s new group chat and sticker features? Cast your vote in the poll below and share your thoughts in the comments section. Thank you for reading and following along!
