Chinese-owned TikTok is testing a new feature that integrates Google Search into its app, a development that experts believe could significantly boost traffic and ad revenue for both the left-leaning US tech giant fanatics as for their Chinese communist counterpart.
Business Insider reports that TikTok, the Chinese social media giant, is in the testing stages of a pioneering partnership with Google, with the aim of improving its search features. This integration was discovered by app researcher Radu Oncescu, who noted that some searches performed within the TikTok app now feature an option to expand the search to Google. This feature directs users to an in-app browser, displaying Google search results for the relevant query, creating a seamless and integrated user experience.
This partnership is not just about improving the user experience; it also has important implications for user engagement and data collection. By allowing users to stay within the app for extended periods, TikTok can tap into a wealth of data about its users’ browsing and searching habits. This extensive data collection could be critical for TikTok to tailor content and features to user preferences and behaviors, maximizing user engagement and satisfaction.