Under 18 TikTok users to lose livestreaming access

TikTok says, the move is aimed at protecting users and supporting their well-being

Under-18 TikTok users will no longer be able to livestream as the app's latest safety update restricts minors from accessing the feature, according to a report by The Verge. The update goes live on November 23.

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Before the update, users over 16 with a minimum of 1,000 followers were allowed to livestream on TikTok.

In a blog post, TikTok said the step was meant to protect users and support their well-being.

In addition to restricting minors from livestreaming, TikTok also plans to introduce adult-only streams that may include content which is not child-friendly. TikTok creators above 18 make money thanks to the tips they receive from other adults. Adult-only streams could prove to be an additional source of revenue for those creating mature content.

However, the app's policies will likely not allow adult-only livestreamers to broadcast explicit content.

Apart from safety updates, TikTok is also launching a 'Multi-Guest' feature to let a streamer welcome five other guests on-screen. There are also reminders for users to build their keyword filter lists to avoid viewing content they may not want to see.