TikTok Prepares US-Specific Algorithm for 170 Million Users Amid Security Concerns

May 30, 2024, 07:28 PM

TikTok is preparing a US-specific version of its recommendation algorithm, according to sources. The move aims to create a version of the app that operates independently of its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to address security and privacy concerns. ByteDance has ordered engineers to separate the recommendation algorithm for TikTok US from Douyin, going through millions of lines of code. This development comes amid legislative pressures in the United States that could lead to a ban on TikTok if it remains under Chinese control. The new algorithm is intended for TikTok's 170 million US users and may result in a version that is more acceptable to American lawmakers.