TikTok Developer Tools: Login with TikTok & Sound Sharing

TikTok Enhances Third-Party App Integration

TikTok is broadening its capabilities by integrating more closely with applications developed by other companies. The platform has unveiled two new toolsets designed for app developers: the TikTok Login Kit and the Sound Kit. These tools will enable mobile, web, and console applications to utilize TikTok credentials for user authentication.

Expanding Functionality with New Kits

Previously, TikTok offered tools for sharing content, including images and videos, to the platform. However, these new Software Development Kits (SDKs) extend this functionality. The aim is to position TikTok not merely as a sharing destination, but as a core component within the broader third-party app ecosystem.

TikTok Login Kit: Streamlined User Access

The Login Kit allows users to sign into applications quickly and easily using their existing TikTok login information. This is comparable to social login options provided by platforms like Facebook or Snap.

Once authenticated, users can then grant access to their TikTok videos within the third-party application. This capability has the potential to foster entirely new app ecosystems centered around TikTok content.

Real-World Applications of the Login Kit

Several applications are already leveraging the Login Kit. For instance, the video dating app Snack allows users to showcase their TikTok videos on their profiles to facilitate connections.

The game recording app Medal will enable users to share their TikTok videos with fellow gamers. Burpple, a platform based in Singapore, allows users to share food and dining reviews with its community.

• Allstar, a gaming clips app, is also an early adopter.
• Breathwrk, an anti-anxiety application, has integrated the Login Kit.
• Social apps IRL, Lolly, MeetMe, Monet, Swipehouse, and EME Hive are utilizing the tool.
• Streamlabs, a creator tool provider, and PUBG, a video game, are also participating.
• Neon, an upcoming NFT platform, will incorporate the Login Kit as well.

When users log in through TikTok, they will encounter a permissions request. This request asks for consent to read profile information and access public videos. Agreement is required to utilize the enhanced video sharing features within the app.

Currently, the Login Kit only requests these specific permissions. It does not grant access to additional information, such as a user’s friend list. TikTok has committed to transparency regarding any future expansions of these permissions.

Sound Kit: Bringing Original Audio to TikTok

The Sound Kit, the second new SDK, empowers artists and creators to introduce their original sounds and music from third-party applications directly into TikTok. This kit requires the Login Kit to function.

This initiative aims to enrich TikTok’s sound database with original content, reducing reliance on licensing agreements with major record labels. Existing licensing rights within the original app will continue to apply to any content shared to TikTok.

By broadening the reach of their music, creators can attract new fans and potentially see their sounds featured in user-generated TikTok videos.

Early Adopters of the Sound Kit

Early adopters of the Sound Kit include:

• Audiobridge, a mobile multi-track recording studio.
• LANDR, a music creation and collaboration suite.
• Rapchat, a hip hop music creation app.
• Yourdio, an upcoming audio recording and remix application.

Selection and Future Development

TikTok selected some early partners based on their prior adoption of the Share to TikTok SDK, launched in 2019. Others were chosen based on their ability to quickly integrate the new features and the strength of their specific use cases.

TikTok prioritized diversity in use cases, seeking innovative applications like video-based dating networks. Further information and developer documentation will be available on TikTok’s developer website.

Access to the new tools will be subject to vetting and review. TikTok also intends to diversify its developer partnerships, expanding beyond its current U.S.-centric focus to reflect the global nature of the initiative.

Isaac Bess, TikTok’s Global Head of Distribution Partnerships, stated that the Sound Kit and Login Kit provide seamless integration solutions. These solutions aim to expand developer reach, increase creator exposure, and empower the TikTok community to share content across platforms.