TikTok CEO Shou Chew on Its Future — and What Makes Its Algorithm Different | Live at TED2023

Recent questions

• What is TikTok's main mission and purpose?

  TikTok's main mission is to inspire creativity and bring joy to its users. The platform aims to provide a space where talented individuals can easily be discovered and showcase their creativity through short videos optimized for smartphones. TikTok's unique discovery engine allows for a diverse range of content beyond dancing and singing, promoting community connections and fostering creativity among its users.

• How does TikTok's recommendation algorithm work?

  TikTok's recommendation algorithm is based on math and pattern recognition to recognize people's interests and promote virality. The algorithm focuses on user-generated content that resonates with people, rather than engineered or pushed content. By prioritizing content that users engage with and find interesting, TikTok aims to provide a personalized and engaging experience for its users, helping talented individuals gain visibility on the platform.

• What measures does TikTok take to ensure user safety?

  Safety is a top priority for TikTok, especially for teenagers, to ensure a safe platform for all users. The platform prohibits dangerous challenges and has proactive measures in place to identify and remove harmful content, redirecting users to safety resources when necessary. TikTok also actively limits screen time, with default limits for users under 18 and tools for parents to monitor and control their children's usage. Additionally, TikTok sends notifications to users to take breaks and encourages healthy screen habits to promote a positive and safe user experience.

• How does TikTok handle content moderation?

  TikTok has tens of thousands of employees dedicated to content moderation, based in Ireland, who combine machine and human efforts to ensure a safe and positive environment on the platform. The company actively moderates content to prevent explicit material and restrict features for users under 18. TikTok also relies on community guidelines to prohibit explicit content and enforce strict content vetting, especially for users under 13 in the US and under 14 in China. By prioritizing safety and content moderation, TikTok aims to provide a platform where users can express themselves creatively while maintaining a safe and respectful community.

• What is TikTok's approach to data protection and transparency?

  TikTok is committed to protecting user data and ensuring transparency in its operations. Project Texas involves moving American data to Oracle in the US to enhance data protection and transparency. The company aims to prevent government manipulation, maintain freedom of expression, and provide transparency through third-party monitoring. By prioritizing data protection and transparency, TikTok aims to minimize risks and ensure a secure platform for its users.