The European Union is on the brink of introducing new regulations for TikTok that will have significant implications for the functionality of the popular social media platform. In a recent announcement, the EU confirmed that it will soon roll out a feature known as the ‘For You’ feed without the TikTok algorithm.
The new ‘For You’ feed is set to be available in European markets from the end of April 2021. It features videos that users have opted to follow, based on their interests and preferences. This will effectively replace the existing ‘For You’ feed, which is powered by the algorithmic recommendation system TikTok employs to surface videos for users.
Under normal circumstances, users who follow tags on TikTok will be served relevant content based on the algorithm’s recommendation. This system has come under intense scrutiny from regulators and users alike, as it has been accused of amplifying extremist content and other forms of hate.
The ‘For You’ feed without the TikTok algorithm is designed to help European regulators better ensure an appropriate online environment. With the new approach, users are able to customize the type of content they see, making it easier to avoid objectionable material.
However, it’s important to note that the ‘For You’ feed without the algorithm is not the only change coming to TikTok. Additional measures are set to be implemented, including a higher age restriction for users. TikTok will also introduce stronger control over data collection, as well as ban more inappropriate content.
These new regulations are set to have a lasting impact on how users consume content on TikTok, and it will be interesting to see how the platform evolves in the upcoming months. The new ‘For You’ feed without the algorithm is a notable shift, and it could open the door for wider regulatory action in Europe.
