After TikTok announced a new adults-only livestream option, many wondered if the platform would become the next OnlyFans, but that's far from the truth. The app is popular with teens and adults, but has raised concerns about content younger viewers may see. After parents repeatedly expressed concerns about kids being influenced by dangerous trends and challenges on the platform, the Bytedance-owned company has been looking at ways to correct some of TikTok's problematic aspects.
For example, the app introduced content filters that prevents users from seeing videos in the For You and Following pages that contain specific words or hashtags. The tool is a significant step towards preventing younger users from seeing inappropriate videos. Additionally, TikTok also prevents users aged 13-17 from seeing content it deems mature or graphic by displaying an age-protected error on top of these videos.
TikTok has now made a policy update that allows content creators to tag their livestreams as adults-only. Understandably, it raises many questions. Until now, any TikTok user has been able to watch livestream footage, regardless of age. However, that is changing in November. TikTok's new safety features will let creators choose if their livestream content is suited only for those 18 and older. That doesn’t mean TikTok is allowing explicit behavior to appear on the app, as it is not updating the community guidelines to allow nudity or sexual activity. Instead, the update is TikTok's attempt to enable creators to feel comfortable that their material is not seen by an audience that isn't mature enough for the subject. For example, a comedian who has adult jokes or a creator who discusses triggering topics may choose to enable this age restriction for livestreams.
TikTok Live Age Restrictions
Another new safety feature by TikTok is increasing the minimum age for users who can start a livestream. Starting Nov. 23, the minimum age for livestreams will jump from 16 to 18. Younger TikTok stars may be upset, but it does not keep them off the app. It only limits their livestream feature usage, where malicious users may target them with hurtful comments. Younger teens are already accustomed to being restrained on the app, given that they do not get Direct Messaging features until they turn 16.
The adults-only livestream feature is a good move by TikTok. The app is trying to create a platform where people can post videos discussing mature topics while protecting younger audiences, given that users aged 13 and above can sign up for the app. The adult nudity content guidelines are still in place, preventing sexual content from appearing on TikTok even with this new option.
Source: TikTok