A TikTok ban is likely to take effect in the United States from Sunday, following the Supreme Court’s unanimous decision on Friday to reject an appeal against the law mandating the ban.
Tribune Online reports that the Supreme Court’s ruling upheld a lower court’s decision that the law does not infringe upon free speech rights.
TikTok, one of the world’s most popular short-form video platforms and a cornerstone of the multi-billion-dollar influencer economy, has been at the centre of a legal and political battle for over a year.
ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, was initially ordered to sell the app to a US buyer by January 2024. However, no sale has yet been finalised, paving the way for the looming ban.
As the potential ban on TikTok looms over its 170 million U.S. users, many are seeking alternative platforms to continue sharing and consuming short-form video content.
In this article, Tribune Online presents some of the alternative apps TikTok users in the US are flocking to:
1. RedNote (Xiaohongshu)
Founded in 2013, RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu, is a Chinese social media app that has recently gained traction among U.S. users. The app allows users to post short videos and live streams, similar to TikTok.
RedNote features content such as product reviews, comedy, and influencer posts, making it a strong contender as a TikTok alternative.
ALSO READ: Ahead Sunday ban, TikTok users in the US now flock to RedNote — another Chinese app
2. Lemon8
Another app owned by ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, Lemon8 combines elements of Instagram and Pinterest. The app allows users to upload photos and short videos and includes interactive content sections.
Lemon8 has been climbing the app store rankings as TikTok users look for alternatives, although its future in the U.S. may be uncertain due to its Chinese ownership.
3. Clapper
Clapper is a short video platform that caters specifically to users aged 18 and older. Launched in 2020, it has seen a fourfold increase in downloads amid the TikTok ban discussions.
Clapper promotes authentic expression and unfiltered interactions, making it appealing to those looking for a more adult-oriented alternative.
4. Flip
Flip is another emerging platform that allows users to create and share short videos. While specific details about Flip’s features and user base are less prominent in current discussions, it is part of the growing list of apps TikTok users are exploring as they seek new avenues for content creation and sharing.
5. Fanbase
Fanbase is a subscription-based social network that combines features from TikTok, Instagram, and Patreon. It offers short-form videos, images, and live-streaming capabilities.
The app is designed to support creators, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and promises an ad-free experience. Fanbase’s “Flickz” feed allows users to discover content similar to TikTok’s format.
6. Triller
Another worthy alternative app TikTok users in the United States are moving to is Triller. The app, which focuses on music videos and skits, appeals to users interested in dance and music content.
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