Stratechery The TikTok War
Jul 14, 2020
This episode dives into the explosive rise of TikTok and the heated discussions around a potential ban in the U.S. It dissects TikTok's unique algorithm and its cultural impact, contrasting its video-centric appeal with traditional media. The complexities of U.S.-China relations are explored, highlighting ideological battles and security concerns. Additionally, the podcast reveals TikTok's surprising political sway, including the infamous moment where K-pop fans cleverly manipulated attendance at a Trump rally, raising alarms about misinformation and data privacy.
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TikTok's Uniqueness
- TikTok's potential ban in the U.S. is driven by two trends.
- These trends involve humans and the internet, and China and ideology.
Digital vs. Analog
- Early digital products often poorly copied analog predecessors before developing native solutions.
- Feeds, unlike pre-defined newspapers, are tailored to individuals, maximizing ad revenue.
Human Preference for Visuals
- Human preference for visual content remains consistent across mediums.
- The internet's success with photos and videos reflects this preference.