TikTok allows Europe to access research software, with an eye on EU online content rules
In the realm of online content oversight, TikTok, the short-video platform, has unveiled its research software to European scholars in anticipation of stringent EU regulations compelling major tech entities to take on a more active role in monitoring online content.
BRUSSELS, July 20 (Reuters) – TikTok, the short-form video application, has extended access to its research software for European scholars, aligning with upcoming EU regulations mandating increased vigilance from Big Tech in policing digital content.
TikTok, a product of the Chinese technology giant ByteDance, finds itself among the 19 online platforms and search engines facing more rigorous obligations scheduled to come into effect in August under the Digital Services Act (DSA).
While awaiting the European Commission’s technical specifications for the application programming interface (API) to access its data, TikTok has chosen to forge ahead.
“In a proactive move, TikTok is deploying its Research API in advance of further technical directives and introducing a commercial content repository ahead of the DSA compliance deadline,” stated the social media application.
“All researchers must possess their personal TikTok for Developers account and reside in the United States or Europe to avail access to our Research API.”
Earlier this year, the company disseminated an initial version of its Research API exclusively to academic researchers based in the United States.
TikTok has additionally granted researchers access to its commercial content API on Thursday.
In adherence to DSA regulations concerning transparency in paid advertising, the company has disclosed its database featuring information about paid advertisements and advertising metadata.
Reporting by Foo Yun Chee; Editing by Alex Richardson
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Foo Yun Chee, a journalist wielding significant influence in setting agendas and steering market trends, boasts two decades of expertise with Reuters. Her coverage of prominent mergers has driven up the European telecoms index, elevated companies’ stock values, and guided investors in making informed decisions. Proficient in European antitrust laws, Yun Chee’s insights have led to breakthrough stories involving Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, pivotal mergers, and antitrust investigations. Past assignments included reporting on Greek politics and corporations during Greece’s entrance into the eurozone, as well as delving into Dutch corporate titans and the idiosyncrasies of Dutch society and culture, consistently captivating readers.