EU Sets TikTok Ultimatum Over ‘Addictive’ New App Feature

EU Sets TikTok Ultimatum Over ‘Addictive’ New App Feature

The European Commission has taken a firm stance against TikTok’s latest offering, TikTok Lite, which has raised concerns about its potential impact on users’ mental health. Here are the key details:

Key details regarding the ultimatum to Tiktok

1. The Ultimatum :
   • On Monday, the European Commission gave TikTok a 24-hour deadline to submit an assessment of potential health risks related to its new app, TikTok Lite.
   • The ultimatum came after the Chinese company failed to provide the necessary information earlier this month.
   • TikTok Lite, a slimmed-down version of the popular video-sharing app, was launched in France and Spain in March. It is optimized for slower internet connections and uses less memory.
2. The Addictive Feature:
   • TikTok Lite enables users over the age of 18 to earn points that can be redeemed for vouchers or gift cards.
   • The European Commission wants the Chinese company to demonstrate how it assessed the addictiveness and mental health risks associated with this rewards scheme.
   • If it fails to reply within the 24-hour deadline, the company faces fines amounting to one per cent of its annual revenue.
3. Digital Service Act Breach:
   • The European Commission also announced a second probe to determine if it breached the EU’s Digital Service Act.
   • Under this act, TikTok was supposed to submit a “risk assessment” before launching TikTok Lite in Europe.
   • The Commission is concerned that the Chinese company launched the app without adequately assessing how to mitigate “potential systemic risks.”
4. The Risks and Concerns:
   • European Commissioner Thierry Breton highlighted the risks associated with the said app:
     • Addiction: The endless stream of short and fast-paced videos on its app can lead to addiction.
     • Mental Health: Users, especially children, may experience anxiety, depression, and eating disorders due to excessive use.
     • Low Attention Spans: The platform’s format can contribute to reduced attention spans.
5. TikTok’s Response:
   • The Company expressed disappointment with the decision.
   • The company clarified that the TikTok Lite rewards hub is not available to users under 18, and there are daily limits on video watch tasks.
   • TikTok remains open to further discussions with the Commission.

In summary, the European Union’s ultimatum to TikTok underscores the growing concern over addictive features in social media apps. As The company faces scrutiny, it must address these issues promptly to ensure user well-being and comply with regulatory requirements.

TikTok Ban – US House Passes Bill That Could Ban TikTok

More Interesting Articles

The Fitness Tracker Market in India and South Asia: Challenges and Growth Prospects

India’s Perspective on Israel Iran Escalations: A Delicate Balancing Act

Navigating the Storm: How the Iran Israel War Impacts Indian Economy and Investor Sentiments

Rajgir: The City of Maurya Empire Unveils Its Ancient Secrets

Tesla Electric Vehicle Announces Workforce Reduction Amidst Global Challenges

The BJP Manifesto for Lok Sabha Polls 2024: A Comprehensive Overview

The Rise of Gold Prices Amidst Geopolitical Turmoil: An Extensive Analysis

The Strategic Petroleum Buffer: India’s Prudent Approach Amidst Middle East Tensions

India Calls for Immediate De-escalation of Iran Israel War After Iran’s Missile Attack

Countdown to Conflict: Iran Israel War in 48 Hours – Can India Forge Peace?

Government Curtails Tax Benefits for Mauritius Tax Treaty-based Foreign Portfolio Investors: What This Means for FPIs

Investigating the Case: Vietnamese Billionaire Truong My Lan Sentenced to Death for $44 Billion Fraud

Investigating the Legal Battle: Patanjali’s Apology and the Allopathy Perspective

Unmasking the Shadow of Racism: The Surge of Anti-Indian Racism in Canada

Bade Miyan Chote Miyan: A Whirlwind of Action, Humor, and Bromance

“Pushpa 2: The Rule” Teaser Ignites Frenzy: Allu Arjun’s Electrifying Avatar Takes Center Stage

Pioneers of Progress: A Chronicle of the University of Calcutta’s Intellectual Legacy

Chaitra Navaratri: Celebrating the Divine Feminine and Seeking Blessings from Devi Durga

Digital Havoc: Unraveling the School Email Bomb Threat in Kolkata and West Bengal

Bandhan Bank Share Price Plummet After CEO Chandra Shekhar Ghosh’s Resignation

Hafiz Saeed Poisoned: India’s Most Wanted Terrorist Hospitalized