With the Supreme Court upholding a ban on TikTok, users are scrambling to back up their content before the platform goes dark this Sunday. This article provides essential guidance on saving videos and downloading personal data from TikTok. It also explores alternative platforms for those seeking new social media options. Users can easily download individual videos by accessing the Share button, but must be mindful of creators' restrictions. Additionally, TikTok offers a data download service that includes usernames, viewing history, and more. However, due to privacy concerns, not all data is available. Given the urgency, it's recommended to act quickly.
Saving Your TikTok Videos and Data Before the Ban Takes Effect
In light of the impending TikTok ban, many users are concerned about preserving their cherished memories and important data stored on the platform. For those looking to save specific videos, whether they're personal creations or favorites, the process is straightforward yet time-consuming. On both iOS and Android devices, users can navigate to their profile page, select the desired video, and tap the Share icon. From there, choosing "Save video" will store the content directly on the device. Similarly, photos can be saved using the same method. However, creators have the option to disable downloads, meaning some liked or bookmarked videos may not be available for preservation.
For users with extensive libraries of content, manually downloading each video can be tedious. While third-party apps offer bulk download services, caution is advised as their reliability varies. An alternative approach is requesting a comprehensive data package from TikTok itself. By navigating through the settings menu under the Account section, users can initiate a data download request. This file may include usernames, viewing history, comment logs, and privacy settings. TikTok emphasizes that certain data may not be accessible due to privacy considerations. Once the request is submitted, users will receive a notification when the file is ready, typically within a few days. Given the looming deadline, it's crucial to initiate this process promptly.
From a journalist's perspective, this situation underscores the importance of digital preservation and data management in an era where platforms can suddenly disappear. The TikTok ban serves as a reminder for users to remain vigilant about safeguarding their online presence and valuable content. As social media continues to evolve, being proactive in managing personal data is more critical than ever.
In 2024, Bluesky experienced unprecedented growth as it welcomed millions of new users, many transitioning from other platforms. This influx brought both opportunities and challenges for the social network. The platform saw a significant increase in user reports, particularly concerning harassment and trolling, which highlighted the need for robust moderation practices. To manage this surge, Bluesky expanded its Trust & Safety team to around 100 moderators and implemented psychological support for staff dealing with graphic content.
With the rapid expansion, Bluesky introduced several measures to streamline its moderation process. Automation played a crucial role in handling the increased volume of reports, reducing processing times from minutes to mere seconds for high-certainty cases. However, this also led to occasional false positives, necessitating human oversight for appeals and complex decisions. Additionally, Bluesky began accepting moderation reports directly through its app, enabling users to track actions and updates more efficiently. The company also saw a spike in reports from Brazilian users when X was temporarily banned in the country, leading to an urgent need for Portuguese-speaking moderators.
The statistics reveal that Bluesky users are advocating for a safer and less toxic online environment. Reports of anti-social behavior, misleading content, and unwanted sexual content were among the most common. Despite these challenges, Bluesky remains committed to fostering a positive community. By enhancing its moderation tools and continuously improving its policies, the platform aims to create a space where users can engage respectfully and constructively. This dedication to user safety and trust reflects the broader goal of building a healthier digital society.
The leadership of Bumble is undergoing a significant shift as its founder, Whitney Wolfe Herd, resumes her role as CEO. This move follows the departure of current CEO Lidiane Jones, who will step down for personal reasons. Jones, previously at the helm of Slack, will assist with the transition until mid-March. The return of a founder to lead the company is not unusual; it often brings fresh perspectives and renewed energy to address pressing challenges.
Bumble's recent financial performance has been under scrutiny, with third-quarter results showing a decline in total revenue despite an increase in paying users. While the number of subscribers grew to 4.3 million, average revenue per user dipped slightly. As the company prepares to release its fourth-quarter figures next month, expectations are set high, with projections indicating app revenue surpassing earlier forecasts. Additionally, adjusted EBITDA is anticipated to align with disclosed outlook ranges. This period of transition could be pivotal in restoring investor confidence and revitalizing growth.
Whitney Wolfe Herd’s reappointment as CEO marks a strategic move for Bumble. Her deep understanding of the company’s mission and culture positions her uniquely to navigate this critical juncture. By leveraging her vision and leadership, Bumble aims to overcome current hurdles and chart a path toward sustainable success. The return of a founder often signals a renewed commitment to innovation and excellence, inspiring both employees and stakeholders alike.