TikTok has recently decided to suspend its Lite app, which rewards users for watching videos or recommending others. The decision came as a result of the European Commission’s concerns that minors could access and become addicted to the app. The suspension, initially for 60 days, could be extended as discussions with the Commission continue.
The Lite app was launched as a test in Spain and France and had already been downloaded by some users who had registered for the rewards service. However, TikTok stated that their decision to suspend the app was voluntary in order to address these concerns. The Commission had given TikTok a deadline to provide arguments in response to their concerns about the addictive nature of the Lite app, particularly for children.
In addition to challenges in Europe, TikTok is also facing issues in the United States. President Joe Biden signed a law giving ByteDance, which owns TikTok, nine months to sell the app or face a ban in the country. Concerns in the US revolve around potential Chinese government influence and data privacy issues.
The Lite app was designed to attract more adult users to TikTok by providing rewards for engagement with the platform. However, there are loopholes that could allow minors to access it despite claims that it is targeted at adults only. The European Commission has raised concerns about age verification measures and potential risks of addiction, particularly for children.
Overall, this suspension highlights TikTok’s challenges in terms of regulatory compliance and addressing user safety and privacy concerns across both Europe and North America.