Why TikTok is the New News Source for Teens?

TikTok is a social media app that lets users create and share short videos of themselves lip-syncing or dancing to music, as well as interact with other users. TikTok’s main demographic is teens and young adults between the ages of 13 and 24, and it’s currently the most popular social media app among that age group. 

TikTok is designed to be a quick, fun way to connect with other users and express yourself. This is achieved by allowing users to create short videos with music, graphics, and special effects that they share via the app.

Why TikTok for News?

One of the main differences between TikTok and other social media platforms is its lack of “feed” content. There is no feed on TikTok. Here in this app, users post a story that lasts 24 hours and then disappears. TikTok is also a closed system, meaning that only approved users can post. This closed system environment makes it a place where teens are less likely to be exposed to the challenges they encounter on open social media platforms, such as cyberbullying, privacy breaches, and fake news.

TikTok appeals to teens because it gives them a safe place to share their stories and interests. But it also serves as a news source where teens are now receiving content from trusted peers rather than from organizations with a “legitimate” news brand.

TikTok and the Gen Z Brandscape

TikTok’s appeal to teens also speaks to another significant shift happening in the marketing landscape: Brands are no longer top of mind for Gen Z. As a result, teens are less receptive to marketing messages from brands compared to previous generations.

TikTok has become a go-to source for news and information, but where news brands have struggled to attract Gen Z readers, TikTok has thrived.

TikTok has emerged as an important platform for Gen Zs to get their news, information, and entertainment. TikTok’s instant, visual, and creative content that is constantly being updated and recycled makes it an ideal platform for this generation.