TikTok has decided to suspend its Lite app, which allowed users to earn money by watching videos or recommending other users. The European Commission threatened to block the app due to concerns about minors accessing it and its potential addictive nature. The suspension is currently in effect for 60 days, but could be extended as conversations with the Commission continue. The decision to suspend the app was described as voluntary by TikTok, in response to the concerns raised by the Commission.
The Lite app, which was only available in Spain and France, allowed users to earn points by logging in daily, watching videos, and recommending the app to others. TikTok aimed to provide rewards for these activities, which could be exchanged for cash or gift vouchers. However, the Commission raised concerns about the addictive nature of the platform and the lack of effective age verification mechanisms. TikTok Lite required users to provide a bank card, video identification, or an identity document to access the rewards program.
While TikTok is temporarily suspending the Lite app in response to the European Commission’s concerns, it is also facing challenges in the United States. President Joe Biden signed a law giving the Chinese company ByteDance, which owns TikTok, nine months to sell the app or face a ban in the country. The main fears in the U.S. are related to potential influence by the Chinese government and data privacy concerns. Despite the challenges, TikTok remains focused on expanding its audience and providing a platform for creators.