The creators of TikTok have a serious problem. All because of the European Union, which does not like the app's new service, TikTok Lite. The latest version is supposed to feature longer videos, just like on YouTube.

"Join the TikTok Lite community to start exploring a diversity of videos, follow your favourite creators, and create standout content! TikTok Lite is designed for users who have less than 2GB of RAM, limited data, or who connect to 2G or 3G networks. It offers a tailored solution to address creators' specific challenges with an uncompromising TikTok experience," reads the app's description on Google Play.

The European Union has recently threatened to ban TikTok Lite due to concerns about its addictive nature. Some politicians have compared its potential harm to that of cigarettes. Additionally, the EU is worried about the safety of children and has asked TikTok to present proof that proper measures are in place to ensure their protection.

The Guardian reports that if the European Union bans TikTok Lite, it will be the first time it has used its "sweeping new powers". These powers allow for imposing sanctions on social media companies. The rules have been in place since the introduction of the landmark Digital Services Act (DSA) in August 2023.

"We suspect #TikTokLite feature to be toxic & addictive, in particular for children. Unless TikTok provides compelling proof of safety —which it failed to do until now—we stand ready to trigger #DSA interim measures including the #suspension of the TikTokLite ‘reward programme’," Thierry Breton, the Digital Commissioner, wrote on X.

Breton added that the app was launched in Spain and France despite the ongoing investigation into TikTok Lite. The Commissioner also said that TikTok is used by millions of children in Europe and the Commission will "spare no effort to protect them".

A meeting was held on Monday, 22 April, with representatives of the European Union and TikTok. However, those responsible for the app reportedly did not provide sufficient evidence regarding safeguarding against addiction.

"While this first case is ongoing, TikTok chose to launch TikTok Lite, which under the laudable promise of letting you watch videos … creates financial incentives for spending more time on your phone," the Guardian quotes.

TikTok Lite rewards users for watching videos, liking content, following creators, and inviting friends to join the platform. These rewards include gift cards to popular retailers such as Amazon and PayPal, as well as TikTok's own Coins currency. However, the European Union has expressed concern that this incentive system could contribute to addictive behaviour among children who use the app.

Source: The Guardian