TikTok Tests “Watch Party” for Shared Viewing
(TikTok Tests “Watch Party” for Shared Viewing)
TikTok is trying a new feature called “Watch Party.” This feature lets users watch videos together in real time. Friends can see the same TikTok video at the same moment. They can also chat about it live.
The test is happening now. Only some users in certain places can try Watch Party. TikTok picked these users randomly. The company wants to see how people use the feature. They want feedback before a wider release.
Watch Party works inside group chats. One person starts the party. They pick a video from their feed or favorites. Then they invite friends from their chat list. Everyone in the party sees the video play together. The chat stays open beside the video. People can react and talk while watching.
TikTok thinks this makes watching more fun. It feels like hanging out with friends. You share the experience instantly. It might help people connect more on the app. Videos become a group activity, not just solo viewing.
The feature is simple to use. The party host controls the video. They play, pause, or skip it. Everyone else watches along. The chat uses text only right now. Voice or video chat isn’t part of this test.
TikTok sees people already share videos a lot. They send clips to friends. They talk about them later. Watch Party aims to make this sharing happen live. It brings people together at the exact same moment. The company believes shared viewing is important. Social connection is key on TikTok.
This test follows similar features on other platforms. YouTube, Amazon, and others have watch parties. But TikTok wants its own version for short videos. They think it fits their community. Users often build connections around viral clips or trends.
(TikTok Tests “Watch Party” for Shared Viewing)
The test is limited. There’s no official date for a full launch. TikTok will decide based on user feedback. They want to know if people enjoy it. They also need to fix any technical problems. The company is watching the results closely.