TikTok, the popular video-sharing app, is planning to launch a new service called TikTok Shop, which will serve as an online store for brands to showcase and sell their products while leveraging the influence of popular bloggers for advertising.
The integration of an e-commerce section into the TikTok app has been a long-standing plan. However, the company has faced obstacles in the United States due to concerns over national security, leading to restrictions on the distribution of the app in certain states.
Despite these challenges, TikTok previously made attempts to enter the e-commerce market by introducing a service for live sales of goods. However, the service did not gain much popularity and was eventually phased out.
The upcoming TikTok Shop is expected to be a separate section within the app, with a planned launch in July 2023. Initially, the service will only be available in the United States.
Notably, TikTok recently introduced paid content options, allowing creators to sell 20-minute videos for $190. The company also announced Pulse Premiere, a program designed to enable users with a large following to monetize their content through advertising.
In addition, TikTok has introduced the Effect Creator Rewards program, along with a $6 million fund to compensate creators of popular effects. However, this opportunity is currently limited to select countries.
With the introduction of TikTok Shop, the platform aims to provide a seamless shopping experience for users and offer brands a new avenue for promoting and selling their products. As TikTok continues to evolve, its expansion into e-commerce could unlock significant opportunities for both creators and businesses alike.