10 fascinating facts about TikTok

TikTok, it’s the social media platform that’s taken the world by storm, with its addictively entertaining short-form videos and endless scroll of user-generated content. In just a few short years, it has grown from a little-known app to a global phenomenon. But did you know there are some seriously interesting facts about TikTok that you probably haven’t heard before?

In this blog, we’re going to take a deep dive into the fascinating world of TikTok and explore 10 interesting facts that will blow your mind. From the app’s humble beginnings to its impact on pop culture and beyond, we’ll cover it all. So, get ready to be amazed and learn something new about this social media sensation that has everyone talking!

1. TikTok has been downloaded more than 3 billion times

That’s right, the app has been downloaded a staggering 3.5 billion times worldwide! Becoming the 5th app ever to achieve this monumental milestone. And…it’s the first non-Meta owned app to accomplish such a feat.

But how did TikTok achieve such astronomical success? Well, a large chunk of its growth can be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. When people found themselves confined to their homes in the early months of 2020, they turned to social media for entertainment and connection. And guess what? TikTok became the go-to platform for millions, experiencing a jaw-dropping 180% surge in users aged 15-25 during that time frame. It’s safe to say TikTok played a significant role in keeping people entertained and connected during those challenging times.

2. TikTok has more than 1.5 billion active monthly users

As of Q3 2022, TikTok had a mind-blowing 1.5 billion active monthly users worldwide.

What’s truly remarkable is how quickly TikTok achieved this milestone. Compare it to Instagram, for example. It took Instagram six years to reach the billion-user mark, while Facebook took four years. But guess what? TikTok sprinted past that in just about three years! And it shows no signs of slowing down either, it continues to be one of the fastest-growing brands in the world.

3. TikTok is the 6th most popular social media platform worldwide

When it comes to the popularity contest of social media platforms, TikTok claims a respectable spot as the sixth most popular platform. It finds itself trailing behind the likes of Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, and WeChat. These platforms have amassed larger user counts, making TikTok a noteworthy contender in the social media landscape, but still, with some ground to cover.

4. With the most followers, Khaby Lame is TikTok’s top star

In June 2022, Khaby Lame snagged the top spot as the most followed TikTok account, surpassing Charli D’Amelio. He’s gained quite the following by creating TikTok videos where he playfully mocks life hack videos. Khaby Lame’s laid-back and humorous approach has resonated with TikTok users around the globe, making him the app’s biggest creator.

5. On average, users open the app 19 times a day

In a world where social media apps are just a tap away, it’s become almost second nature for us to reach for our phones without a second thought. But have you ever wondered just how frequently we dive into the world of TikTok? On average, users open the app a whopping 19 times per day. How does your own usage compare to this insight?

6. The average worldwide monthly time spent on TikTok is 23.3 hours

In 2022, users around the world devoted an average of around 23.3 hours per month to using TikTok. This marked an increase from the 19.6 hours of engagement recorded per user in 2021. However, users in the United Kingdom took their TikTok experience to the next level, spending over 27 hours on average using this popular social video and live streaming app. It’s evident that TikTok has captured the attention and time of users globally, with the UK standing out for their extended engagement on the platform.

7. TikTok is most popular with younger generations

The popularity of TikTok among the younger generation in the UK is undeniable, with over 40% of TikTok users falling within the coveted 18-24 age bracket. Gen Z’s love for scrolling through TikTok is evident and continues to drive its widespread appeal.

However, the statistics paint a different picture when it comes to older adults. Only a mere 2% of adults over the age of 45 in the UK engage with the video-sharing app. TikTok’s growth seems to be primarily concentrated among the younger demographics, while it has yet to gain significant traction among older age groups.

8. TikTok is available in 150+ countries

TikTok reigns as the ultimate home for mobile videos, captivating users in over 154 countries. Despite bans in a number of countries, it remains available globally, translated into 75+ languages. For marketers, this means reaching diverse audiences and growing your brand by collaborating with micro-influencers in these countries.

9. TikTok has been banned or has partial bans in 12+ countries

In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, TikTok has not been immune to bans and restrictions in various countries. From partial to complete bans, several nations have taken measures regarding the popular video-sharing platform.

Australia cited security concerns and prohibited the app on federal government-owned devices. Belgium restricted TikTok on government officials’ work phones, emphasising concerns about cooperation with Chinese intelligence services. Similar bans were implemented in Canada, Denmark, India, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, albeit with varying degrees and reasons. The diversity of these bans highlights the geopolitical, cultural, and security considerations surrounding the use of TikTok in different parts of the world.

10. TikTok is worth an estimated $50+ billion

Determining the exact worth of TikTok, being a rather private company, poses a challenge. Valued at $50 billion in 2020, experts believe its worth may have surged to a staggering $75 billion by 2023. TikTok’s ever-evolving value showcases its immense popularity and potential in the dynamic realm of social media. It’s a financial journey that keeps us on our toes, eagerly anticipating the platform’s next move.

Final Thoughts

TikTok has emerged as a powerhouse marketing channel that simply cannot be overlooked. The undeniable impact and potential of this platform should capture the attention of visionary marketers and brands alike. These compelling facts about TikTok serve as a wake-up call, urging forward-thinking professionals to embrace its immense opportunities.

Niamh Taylor

I am the Founder and CEO of Digital Twenty Four. I’m an award winning digital marketer who took a risk, and left the safety of a well-paid, super safe in-house head of marketing role to launch Digital Twenty Four in May 2015. But -it was a risk worth taking because I now own a brilliant company, with a brilliant reputation, and with the best humans working within it. And an award-winning digital marketing expert with over 20 years experience in marketing.