TikTok is shutting down an in-app feature that was a close copy of social media platform BeReal
ByAssociated Press New York
TikTok is shutting down an in-app feature that was a close copy of social media platform BeReal.
The feature, called TikTok Now, was launched in September and gives users daily prompts to capture a 10-second video or picture using the front and back cameras on their phones.
TikTok said in a statement on Tuesday that a notification was sent to users informing them that the feature would be discontinued. It added that users can still access previous posts made with TikTok Now.
“We’re excited to use the feedback we’ve received through TikTok Now as we continue to create ways for the TikTok community to connect and create shared entertainment,” said Zachary Kizer, TikTok spokesperson.
TikTok Now was launched when BeReal was gaining popularity among users last year. The app informed users to take photos at random moments in an effort to reflect more real experiences, eschewing the picture-perfect posts often found on other platforms like Instagram.
Given its popularity, Snapchat and Instagram launched similar features last year, but whether users will be interested in a more authentic experience remains to be seen.
Market intelligence firm Sensor Tower said that despite its growth, only 9% of users opened the app daily during the third quarter of last year. BeReal said in April that it had 20 million daily active users.
