TikTok has opened access to its research software for European researchers. This move is aimed at helping the company comply with upcoming EU online content regulations.
The software, called “TikTok Insights,” offers data on user interactions with platform content. However, this data will only be used for research purposes and not for targeted advertising.
TikTok has been under increased scrutiny from European regulators. The European Commission is currently working on new rules for online content platforms, which may require faster removal of harmful content.
By providing researchers access to its data, TikTok hopes to demonstrate its commitment to addressing regulatory concerns. Additionally, the company seeks to improve its content moderation systems with the insights gained from the research.
The researchers who have access to TikTok Insights are affiliated with various European universities and research institutes. Their main focus will be analyzing user interactions with content to identify potential risks.
TikTok will offer researchers a range of metrics, including video views, likes, shares, and demographic information of interacting users.
The data sharing arrangement will last for one year, after which TikTok will evaluate whether to extend the access.
This step is a significant effort by TikTok to comply with EU online content rules. Its impact on satisfying regulators’ concerns remains to be seen, but it represents a positive step forward.
