TikTok, the popular social media platform known for its short-form video content, is testing the ability for users to upload 60-minute videos. This new feature is currently available to a limited group of users in select markets, with no immediate plans for a wider rollout.
The introduction of 60-minute videos represents a significant departure from TikTok’s original format, which initially allowed only 15-second videos. Over the past few years, TikTok has progressively increased this limit. Although the platform rose to fame with its brief, engaging clips, it has gradually embraced long-form content to compete with one of its biggest rivals, YouTube.
Social media consultant Matt Navarra was the first to spot the new feature. According to TikTok, the extended time limit aims to give creators more flexibility to experiment with new or expanded types of content. This change is in response to feedback from creators who desire more time for various types of videos, such as cooking demonstrations, beauty tutorials, educational lessons, and comedic sketches.
By allowing 60-minute video uploads, TikTok is likely hoping to attract creators who typically post long-form content on YouTube. This move could entice these creators to also share their videos on TikTok, potentially expanding the platform’s user base and engagement.
The new time limit could also pave the way for different types of content on TikTok, including full episodes of TV shows. Last year, Peacock released the first episode of “Killing It” on TikTok for free, but had to divide it into five parts. With the 60-minute upload capability, networks would no longer need to split episodes into multiple segments. This change could encourage more networks to use TikTok to reach new viewers, similar to their strategies on YouTube.
While longer content may not appeal to all TikTok users, the platform has been enhancing the viewing experience for those interested in long-form videos. TikTok has been testing features like horizontal full-screen mode and video-scrubbing thumbnails to improve navigation. Additionally, the platform introduced a fast-forward feature last year, allowing users to hold down the right side of a video to skip ahead.
As with any test feature, it remains uncertain when or if TikTok will launch the 60-minute video upload option widely. For now, the company continues to explore ways to enhance its platform and compete more directly with long-form content giants like YouTube.
