The European Union regulators are seeking details from TikTok on a new app called TikTok Lite that pays users to watch videos. The commission has sent a request for information to TikTok on the risk assessment that should have been done before deploying the app in the EU. This request comes in light of the Digital Services Act, a law aimed at cleaning up social media platforms. TikTok has stated that it will respond to the request for information and has already been in direct contact with the Commission regarding this product.
TikTok Lite offers users the chance to earn rewards by watching videos, liking content, and following content creators. The app, which is a slimmed-down version of the main TikTok app, does not include e-commerce or live streaming features. Users can earn points that can be exchanged for rewards such as Amazon vouchers and gift cards on PayPal. The rewards are limited to users who are 18 years and older and have verified their age. Users can watch up to one hour of videos a day to earn rewards, which are capped at one euro ($1.06) a day.
The commission has given TikTok 24 hours to provide the risk assessment for the app. They are particularly interested in how the app may impact the protection of minors and the mental health of users, especially in terms of potentially stimulating addictive behavior. The commission is also seeking information on the measures TikTok has in place to mitigate these risks. TikTok has until April 26 to provide this information to the commission. The European Union is strict when it comes to digital regulations, and the app will need to meet certain standards to be compliant.
TikTok Lite has been launched in France and Spain this month, and the app allows users to “earn great rewards” through various activities on the platform. The app store listing specifies the features of the app and the opportunities for users to earn points that can be exchanged for rewards. TikTok has made it clear that the rewards are only available to users who are 18 years and older and have verified their age. Users can watch up to one hour of videos a day to earn rewards, which are limited to the equivalent of one euro ($1.06) a day.
The European Commission wants to ensure that TikTok has conducted a thorough risk assessment before deploying the TikTok Lite app in the European Union. This is in line with the Digital Services Act, which aims to regulate social media platforms and ensure the protection of users, especially minors. The commission is requesting specific information from TikTok about the potential impact of the app on users’ mental health and behavior. TikTok has committed to provide the necessary information to the commission and has already been in direct contact regarding this matter.
