TikTok might be developing sophisticated messaging features

We are all aware of the fact that TikTok has revolutionized the video-based social media space. Some recent pieces of information suggest that TikTok might be setting its pace to enter the messaging industry. Although the app already features a messaging function, the company might be aiming to improve it. Reportedly, ByteDance is hiring professionals to work on the messaging features.

Several new job openings can be seen on the ByteDance website. These job positions are specifically targeted at developing a new internal team named ‘TikTok Social.’ The job descriptions reveal that some of the roles are specified for improving TikTok’s messaging features. An engineering lead role’s introduction states, “We are the messaging team on TikTok.” The goal of our team is to develop TikTok’s messaging platform, which is currently in its early stages, into a platform that helps users communicate meaningfully.

New messaging tools and other opportunities for users to communicate on the platform are also mentioned in other job descriptions. “Some fundamental functions and elements that we develop and operate include User Profile, Story, Inbox, Messaging, Follow, Like, Comment, Tag, etc.,” according to ByteDance. There are no details on the future plans of TikTok. However, the company is clear that entertainment is their main concern since it is the core of their business model. The official statement from the company reveals that even if we explore new options and features, we will not lose focus on our core.

Since the popularity of short-form videos on TikTok, several companies like YouTube, Instagram, and Snapchat have copied this feature. Although these platforms already had advanced features the integration of TikTok’s features helped them improve their user base as well as their feature set. Now it appears that ByteDance wishes to copy other social media platforms by integrating several other features like shopping, text post features, podcasts, and a new messaging system. There are no further details on this right now, but things might become more clear with time.