TikTok provides income for specific video authors to ensure that popular creators receive due returns

TikTok is providing users with a new way to recognize the pop videos that have caused viral transmission.
When uploading content, users can not only mark individual creators in the video description, but also mark specific videos.
The platform claims that this new feature will "better realize the return of creators, and provide fair ownership for our creator community and content sponsors." This change, to some extent, is a response to users' complaints.
They believe that the platform handles viral content in a parasitic way.
For example, last summer, some black dance creators went on strike from the application, pointing out that many viral dances (such as Renegade and Savage) were created by black users and then spread to other parts of the community, but there was no appropriate return.
This exploitation pattern has existed in the digital space long before the rise of TikTok.
For example, Latoya Peterson wrote in Wired magazine in 2016 that Vine, the originator of short videos, also ignored black creators, who provided some of the most lasting original works for the platform.
However, on TikTok, due to the ability of the application to spread viral trends by sharing audio and tags, it can be said that the problem of attribution is more prominent.
Satisfying creators is an important part of maintaining a platform's longevity.
Kudzi Chikumbu, creator community director of TikTok, mentioned this in the post announcing this change.
Chikumbu wrote: "These functions are an important step for us to continue to commit to investing in resources and product experiences that support and return the culture of the online community, which is crucial to ensure that TikTok continues to become the home of creative expression.
Whether it is to participate in the latest trend video activities, tell a joke to entertain the public, or create the voice of the next viral communication, creators can easily and directly cite their inspiration."