Key Highlights
- TikTok users across Europe and the US report a growing problem with repeated old videos in the “For You” feed.
- The issue has led to complaints about the platform’s recommendation system, with some users feeling their experience is disrupted.
- Speculation points to possible causes including technical failures, internal testing or changes due to regulatory and political pressure.
- TikTok claims the phenomenon may be linked to routine algorithmic testing but has faced scrutiny over its operations in Europe.
TikTok Users Report Surge in Repeated Old Videos
Across Europe and the United States, TikTok users have reported a significant issue with the platform’s “For You” feed. Many are experiencing an increase in videos they have already watched, liked, or reposted, leading to frustration and a disrupted user experience that has long been central to TikTok’s appeal.
User Experience Disrupted
One user expressed their frustration on the platform, stating, “I keep seeing videos I’ve already liked or shared. It’s boring and stressful.” Another user wrote, “Every three videos, I recognize the content. Why am I seeing Halloween videos again?” These complaints have spread rapidly, drawing attention to potential issues within TikTok’s recommendation system.
Platform’s Response and Speculation
French social media journalist Aaron Parnas commented on these developments, saying, “My page only shows videos from months or even years ago. The feed I carefully curated no longer shows what I want to see.” TikTok has attempted to address the issue by claiming that it may be linked to routine testing of its algorithm, which can sometimes resurface previously liked content under the assumption that users might want to watch it again.
However, these explanations have not quelled concerns. Users are questioning whether this is a result of technical failures or part of internal changes driven by regulatory and political pressure.
In particular, TikTok’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, has been in talks to restructure its US operations amid the risk of a ban in the country. A proposed deal involving Oracle to help retrain and secure a new recommendation system based on American user data is currently under discussion.
Despite this development, European users are also affected, raising questions about the global nature of these issues and the platform’s ability to maintain consistent performance across different regions. The situation highlights ongoing challenges for TikTok as it navigates complex regulatory environments and seeks to address user concerns while ensuring smooth operation.
Impact on User Engagement
The issue has not gone unnoticed, with some users reporting that they are spending less time on the app due to these disruptions. Others describe their feed as “completely disorganized,” further emphasizing the impact on overall user experience and engagement.
TikTok’s digital landscape faces increasing scrutiny from both regulatory bodies and users alike. As the platform continues to evolve, addressing these concerns will be crucial for maintaining its position in a competitive online environment.