TikTok has introduced new features that allow users to post voice messages, polls and multiple photos in the comment section as the platform expands the ways people interact with videos.
The social media platform said the updates are designed to make its comment section more interactive, with more than 1.7 billion comments shared across TikTok every day.
One of the new features, Voice Comments, allows users to record and post audio messages directly under videos. Users can tap the microphone icon in the comment box to record a message of up to 60 seconds.
TikTok said Voice Comments will allow users to react to videos without typing, whether they are responding to a joke, singing along with a creator or reacting to a video.
The feature is being rolled out globally over the next month to users aged 18 and above.
TikTok has also introduced Comment Polls, allowing creators to ask their followers questions and collect votes directly through the comment section.
Creators can add polls when commenting on their own videos, provide up to five options and set how long the poll will remain active. They can also monitor voting results in real time.
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Comment Polls are now available globally.
The platform is also expanding its photo comment features with Photo Carousel Comments and Live Photo Comments.
Photo Carousel Comments allow users to post up to nine photos in a single comment, giving them the option to share multiple images instead of choosing just one.
TikTok said the feature could be useful for users responding to travel or lifestyle videos with several photos from their own experiences.
Live Photo Comments, meanwhile, allow users to upload Live Photos from their camera rolls, adding a short burst of motion to photo comments.
Live Photo Comments are now available globally, while Photo Carousel Comments are being rolled out globally over the next month.
TikTok already allows users to post text, photo and video sticker comments, which the company said have helped turn comment sections into a more interactive part of the platform.
The latest updates build on those features as TikTok seeks to increase interaction between creators and their audiences.
About the Author
Cecilia Attah is a tech analyst with a degree from Benue State University. She covers tech news and startups at TechRegard with a focus on how technology is transforming Africa and shaping the global landscape.
