What will happen to TikTok if Elon Musk buys it: Possible scenarios
What will change in the social media if Musk buys it (photo: Getty Images)
A new twist is brewing in the world of social media: according to sources, Chinese authorities are discussing the possibility of selling TikTok's American unit to Elon Musk. This move could dramatically change the popular platform if the deal goes through.
Content moderation
Easing restrictions
Musk calls himself an advocate of "absolute freedom of speech," which could lead to a significant reversal of TikTok's current content moderation rules. This could lead to an increase in the amount of disinformation, hate speech, graphic content, and other potentially harmful material.
Staff reductions
Similar to the massive layoffs at (X) Twitter, TikTok may cut its content moderation teams, which will only increase the spread of unwanted content.
Focus on context instead of deletion
Musk advocates adding explanations or labels to controversial content instead of deleting it. Such an approach could be implemented on TikTok and cause controversy over what is considered harmful content.
Algorithm and content recommendations
Algorithmic transparency (possible)
TikTok's algorithm remains closed and non-transparent, but Musk may introduce more openness into the process. This will allow users to understand how content is included in recommendations on the For You tab.
Prioritization of certain types of content
Musk may change the algorithm to promote certain types of content, such as longer videos, paid posts, or posts from verified users (if a verification system is implemented). This could reduce the popularity of short videos, which are the backbone of TikTok.
Changing interaction signals
TikTok's algorithm takes into account likes, comments, reposts, and viewing time to personalize the feed. Musk may introduce new signals or change the weight of existing ones, which will lead to unpredictable changes in content recommendations.
Chinese app RedNote is gaining popularity amid a potential US ban on TikTok (photo: Daily Jang)
Monetization and revenue
Paid verification and subscriptions
Following the model of X (formerly Twitter), TikTok may introduce paid verification or subscriptions with access to premium features such as increased content visibility, exclusive posts, or reduced advertising. This can create a two-tiered system where non-subscribing authors are at a disadvantage.
Changing author support funds
Monetization programs for content creators may be revised: payout rates, eligibility criteria, and new revenue sharing models may be introduced.
Strengthening focus on commerce
Musk may increase the emphasis on the shopping function on TikTok, turning the platform into a more direct sales channel.
Biden urged to extend deadline for TikTok sale to avoid blocking social network (photo: Getty Images)
Data privacy
Uncertainty in data processing
Musk does not have a clear position on data privacy issues, which raises concerns about changes in TikTok's data collection, storage, and use policies.
Improved data transfer
Given that Musk's other companies, such as Tesla and SpaceX, collect large amounts of data, there is a risk that data sharing between these companies and TikTok could increase, which could exacerbate privacy concerns.
Corporate culture and operations
Mass layoffs and restructuring
As it was the case with Twitter, Musk's purchase of TikTok may lead to significant staff reductions and restructuring of the company's structure, which will affect its stability and development.
Changing corporate culture
Musk's management style is known for its demanding and unconventional approach. This can lead to serious changes in the company's culture and affect employee morale and productivity.
In March 2023, a protest against the TikTok ban took place in the United States (photo: @RepBowman/X(Twitter))
Geopolitical consequences
Reduced pressure from Western governments
The transition of TikTok into Musk's hands could reduce political pressure associated with Chinese ownership of the platform.
Rising tensions with China
Depending on Musk's policies and public statements, the deal could exacerbate relations between the US and China.
We also have an article about 11 alternative social networks for those looking for something new besides Meta and Twitter
We'll also remind you that Elon Musk told how AI will change the future.
Sources: Business Insider, The Verge, Fortune.
