TikTok Introduces Longer Videos and Gets More Like YouTube

The distinction between YouTube and TikTok is becoming more and more elusive. 

TikTok is attempting the same type of 15-minute videos that are often found on YouTube, in contrast to YouTube, which has committed to short-form video content.

The move was initially noticed by social media expert Matt Navarra, who verified it to TechCrunch on behalf of TikTok. 

The company just said that the longer duration is being evaluated with a small sample of users in specific locations without providing any other information.

The test is applicable to TikTok videos on PC and in the app, as Navarra's screenshot made clear. 

The video time restriction on TikTok has been gradually increased from 15 seconds to 60 seconds to three minutes. The majority of users still have a 10-minute time limit. 

TikTok becomes more like YouTube

The company is putting itself up against YouTube with its 15-minute video test, as the latter has included TikTok's well-liked short-form content to its platform and has even discontinued its Stories feature in favor of TikTok-like Shorts. 

In response, TikTok has enabled a full-screen horizontal mode for select users, which more closely resembles YouTube's user interface. 

Additionally, it is experimenting with other revenue sources, such as a possible subscription service and the TikTok Shop. 

Over 1 billion people currently use TikTok, and when it comes to social media users, they spend the most time browsing through it than any other app. 

Compared to 47.5 minutes on YouTube and 34.1 minutes on Twitter, users spend an average of 55.8 minutes every day on TikTok. 

It is the most downloaded phone app globally and in the United States. However, state governments are advocating for limitations on its usage. 

Read more: These Users Are Not Being Allowed to Watch YouTube Videos