Erika Thompson, an online sensation, finds TikTok to be the most powerful social media platform to engage her 11 million followers in the topic closest to her heart: bees.
The potential ban of the platform in the US, enforced after a Supreme Court ruling, could have significant financial implications for Ms. Thompson, a beekeeper from Texas. However, beyond monetary concerns, it represents a loss of a valuable educational resource. She emphasized, "There are many others on the platform sharing informative content, and that is the real loss we, as a society, should focus on."
With approximately 170 million American users, TikTok faces a shutdown in the US unless the China-based parent company ByteDance sells the platform or government intervention occurs by Sunday.
The fate of TikTok was put in the hands of the US Supreme Court following bipartisan efforts to address concerns about its Chinese ties and national security risks. Despite TikTok's assurances of data privacy, its possible ban has stirred apprehensions among users and creators who consider it a pivotal platform for both exposure and income.
Content creators highlighted TikTok's unique appeal, citing its ability to propel individuals to stardom overnight. The platform's distinctive format has proven difficult to replicate elsewhere, as noted by influencers such as Ross Smith and Codey James. Fashion influencer Nicole Bloomgarden underscored the platform's significance in generating income through brand collaborations.
The potential ban mirrors the 2017 shutdown of Vine, prompting creators like Q Park to adapt and diversify their online presence. While some creators are exploring new platforms to maintain their audience, others remain optimistic that TikTok's popularity could forestall its demise.