TikTok's API will allow scientists and analysts to access "publicly anonymous" data such as user profiles, comments, likes, and "favorites" of videos, and search results to make TikTok's trends and user behavior transparent.
The research API was first announced last summer, and members of the advisory board got access to it in November. TikTok's US data security division continues to supervise research proposals, and scientists must comply with the terms of the service. "In the coming months," the company says.
The initial announcement of API access for analysts and scientists by TikTok was made as another attempt to demonstrate that the company, like its parent company ByteDance, does not pose a threat to US national security: members of the House of Representatives were prohibited from using the app, and similar restrictions were extended to civil servants in several states and federal agencies.
The news of increased public access is the latest in a series of trust-building initiatives by The Company to provide information to researchers, journalists, and the general public about its processes. Earlier this month, the company invited members of the media to tour its Center for Transparency and Accountability, a physical office space where visitors can interact with moderation simulation software and learn about the company's security policies.
Despite the fact that American politicians, both liberals and conservatives, continue to advocate for a complete ban on TikTok, the issue has become a source of political manipulation and speculation for the time being.
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