TikTok is one of the most popular and widely used apps in the world. You’d think the company would be able to translate that success to other derivative services given its extensive user base. However, TikTok Music, ByteDance’s attempt at music streaming, will shut down soon.
TikTok’s short video format is not only great for consuming useful and fun content but also for discovering music. Every so often, a song becomes popular among users of the platform. This can happen unexpectedly when a meme or something similar goes viral. So, it seemed quite logical for TikTok to try to get into the music streaming segment. It would be ideal if, after listening to part of a song in a TikTok video, you could listen to the full version on TikTok Music with a tap.
ByteDance will shut down TikTok Music on November 28; subscribers to get refunds
However, it takes more than just good ideas to make a project successful, and ByteDance has noticed. The music streaming industry is very competitive, so you have to offer a service at least on par with the likes of Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, or Tidal. It seems TikTok Music failed to make the grade, so ByteDance will be shutting it down on November 28th.
It’s noteworthy that TikTok Music never had a global rollout. The company was testing it in countries like Indonesia, Brazil, Australia, Mexico, and Singapore. The “TikTok Music” trademark application in 2022 suggested that ByteDance planned to bring the service to the United States.
TikTok Music users whose subscriptions end after November 28th can receive a refund. On Android, the refund will be automatic, although you can also request it through Google Play. Users of Apple devices will have to request a refund through Apple support before the deadline. Plus, subscribers have until October 28 to transfer their playlists to other music streaming services.
Other music streaming platforms had a big advantage
TikTok Music had a tough time catching up with its rivals from the start. Today, services like YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple Music each have over 100 million songs in their catalogs. Plus, each app offers extra features that make them stand out even more. For example, Spotify has been integrating AI to enable a DJ based on your personal tastes, as well as podcasts. Meanwhile, YouTube Music offers millions of original covers and remixes in addition to the official songs.
There are also services that offer HiFi plans, like Tidal or the long-awaited one for Apple Music. The latter even includes support for Spatial Audio in selected content for an immersive experience. Overall, ByteDance may have bet too little on TikTok Music.
