Here are the 4 major TikTok changes that will help you market and sell products to a potential audience of 2 billion.

The way we market and sell products or services online is changing so rapidly that we need to keep up with the latest social media trends.

I’m sure by now you’re aware that TikTok has become a major social media platform that you shouldn’t ignore. Its usage is rapidly growing among teens and adults, making it one of the most popular platforms in the world. In fact, according to the latest data, TikTok had 1.5 billion monthly active users in 2023 and is expected to reach two billion by the end of 2024. 

That is a lot of people.

So even if you are already using TikTok, or not, these 4 changes to the platform will help you recognize new marketing opportunities for your brand.

1. They want you to start making horizontal long-format videos

Yes, you read it correctly.

The vertical short-format video platform is now competing with YouTube and Netflix. They are giving creators incentives for posting horizontal videos that are longer than 1 minute. Each longer format video gets a 72-hour free boost.

If you are in marketing, this is the perfect time to plan long-format videos for TikTok so you can take advantage of the 72-hour free promotion, allowing you to reach a wider audience.

2. They will soon automatically recognize products in videos

TikTok is testing a new feature where they will automatically be able to recognize products in all videos and offer a link to “Find similar items on TikTok Shop.”

This feature is part of their long-term business plan to expand e-commerce services on their platform. We know they are getting serious about this as they are planning to generate $17.5 billion in sales in 2024.

Knowing this, marketing managers should prepare video content for this upcoming trend.

3. You can’t use songs in videos from popular artists anymore

No more Beyoncé or Taylor Swift songs on TikTok.

Universal Music Group (UMG), which owns the rights to the most popular songs by global artists, has canceled its agreement with TikTok. This means they are removing their catalog of millions of songs previously available on the platform.

Use this knowledge to plan what music you will add to your videos that don’t infringe copyright.

4. TikTok is investing in Live Streaming Studios

It is rumored that TikTok is searching for studios in LA, where creators can film their live shopping broadcasts.

The studios will be professionally equipped to give streamers everything they need to make excellent live shopping videos. Live e-commerce shopping is still not a trend like it is in Asia, but the platform is looking to change people’s minds about that.

Considering this is where the platform aims to grow, use this knowledge to start creating your livestream channel for your brand.

Shopping center managers can also take note, and create similar spaces within their malls for live streaming.

Final Tip

It is my opinion, shared by the majority of global retail experts, that the future of marketing and selling products or services is on social media platforms.

Social media is the key to your marketing success in 2024.

Therefore, you might be also interested in: What do Social Media Users Want in 2024?