TikTok, the popular video-sharing platform, is expanding its capabilities to compete with major messaging services like Meta’s WhatsApp and Apple’s Messages. On Monday, the company announced the introduction of group chats, a new feature that allows TikTok users to create group conversations with up to 32 participants, enabling them to chat and share content together.
However, the new group chat feature comes with specific age restrictions. Users aged 13 to 15 will not have access to this feature. For those aged 16 to 17, access is allowed but with certain limitations: teens can only be added to a group chat by friends they mutually follow. Additionally, if a link to join a group chat is sent to a teen, they will only be able to join if one of their friends is already a member of that group.
To enhance user safety and control, TikTok is offering tools that allow users to mute and block members within any chat group. Users will also have the option to report individual messages or entire groups that violate the platform’s policies.
In addition to group chats, TikTok is also introducing stickers for direct messages, adding a new layer of personalization to user interactions.
