Is Originality Overrated? A Look at TikTok’s New Text-Based Feature

TikTok has recently introduced a new feature that allows users to share short, text-based “thoughts” on the app. This feature displays the text in a speech bubble format on the user’s Stories feed at the top of their inbox. This move by TikTok is reminiscent of Instagram’s Notes option, which has been popular among younger users.

The introduction of this new feature raises questions about originality in the world of social media platforms. TikTok’s decision to essentially copy Instagram’s Notes feature highlights the ongoing trend of platforms borrowing ideas from one another. While TikTok cannot use the term “Notes” due to its association with their separate photo-sharing app, the similarities between the two platforms are undeniable.

It is interesting to note the increasing convergence between TikTok and Instagram. Despite their differences in user demographics and content formats, both platforms are beginning to resemble each other in terms of features and functionalities. With Instagram’s reliance on AI recommendations for content and TikTok’s algorithmic advantage in catering to user interests, the line between the two apps is becoming blurred.

The real question is whether TikTok’s new text-based feature will be successful. While Instagram has reported positive results from their Notes feature, it remains to be seen whether TikTok users will embrace this new addition. Given the history of feature replication between the two platforms, it is not surprising to see TikTok following in Instagram’s footsteps. However, only time will tell if this move will pay off for TikTok in the long run.

The debate over originality in social media platforms continues to be a topic of discussion. While TikTok’s new text-based feature may be seen as a replication of Instagram’s Notes, it is ultimately up to the users to determine its success. The competitive landscape between TikTok and Instagram is evolving rapidly, and it will be interesting to see how these platforms continue to innovate and differentiate themselves in the future.