TikTok Updates: Avatars, Live Audio & New Creator Tools

TikTok's Expanding Feature Set

TikTok is currently developing several new functionalities, encompassing customizable avatars reminiscent of Bitmoji, keyword filtering for the For You Page, group messaging capabilities, and audio-only livestreaming options.

Further enhancements under consideration include screen sharing during livestreams and subscription-based features akin to those found on Twitch.

Details on Upcoming Features

These prospective features were identified by social media analyst Matt Navarra during observation of the platform’s development process.

It’s important to note that these are features currently in development and may not ultimately be implemented in the application.

However, the exploration of these features can offer valuable insights into TikTok’s future direction and strategic planning.

A TikTok spokesperson confirmed to TechCrunch that the company is actively evaluating these additions.

The spokesperson also highlighted that user feedback is a crucial component of the development process, meaning the final versions of these features could differ significantly from initial concepts.

Features Already in Testing

Some of the leaked features, such as paid creator subscriptions, have already undergone public testing phases.

The introduction of subscriber-only emotes and comment sections, mirroring Twitch’s functionality, aligns with recent tests of TikTok Live Studio, a desktop streaming software.

The planned keyword filtering system, similar to Twitter’s muted words feature, is part of TikTok’s broader initiative to improve content moderation on the For You Page.

In a December blog post, TikTok announced, “We’re working on a feature that would let people choose words or hashtags associated with content they don’t want to see in their For You feed.”

Expanding into New Areas

Additional leaked concepts, including personalized avatars and audio-only livestreams, suggest potential areas for TikTok’s continued growth.

Given the platform’s existing livestream video capabilities, exploring live audio represents a logical extension of its offerings.

Furthermore, the addition of group messaging functionality addresses a long-standing user request, enabling more direct communication within the TikTok community.