TikTok Testing TikTok Stories, Wider Release Remains Uncertain

TikTok is pilot testing a feature called "TikTok Stories". Just like Facebook’s Messenger Day and Twitter’s now-deleted Fleets, it allows people to share pictures and videos that can only be viewed for 24 hours.

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The news came from social media consultant Matt Navarra, who has a reputation of spotting and announcing new features on social networks.

Though TikTok confirmed that the pilot test for TikTok Stories has been going on for days, the social network did not reveal whether it intends to roll out the feature to the general public. Currently, TikTok users from a couple of non-US markets are trying out the format, providing insights and feedback that could help the tech company decide its fate.

Should TikTok Stories be released, it will let you access your camera directly from the app, making it easier for you to upload images and clips. To share your first Story, all you need to do is tap the camera button at the navigation bar, which will be on the left side of the screen.

You can also place texts, stickers, sounds and other effects on top of the media you’ll post on your Story. Unlike what we've experienced before, TikTok’s version of the Stories format will give users the unique opportunity to publicly comment on content that will be gone in a day.

Aside from that, posters will be able to know how many people saw their specific Story and whether they follow the viewers. A follow button to be placed near each viewer’s username will let people connect with their viewers.

Users will be able to see other people’s Stories by scrolling through the sidebar and tapping on a creator’s profile picture to watch their content.

The Stories feature will benefit users who post inconsistently or do not post at all as it lets them easily engage with the app, helping them become more comfortable with sharing content on the platform. With TikTok Stories, creators can additionally develop their bond with fans as it provides an avenue to have personal conversations.

What is interesting about the development is that TikTok Stories was publicised just after Twitter removed Fleets from its site. One user who commented on Navarra’s announcement believes that the failure of Fleets is a sign that the Stories format is getting old. Another person shared that she would rather see other features on TikTok.

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Written by Sophia Lopez