Wow~What a surprise this is.

Social media giant TikTok is gearing up to test a new feature that could revolutionize user engagement: Mini Apps. In a move that mirrors the success of its Chinese counterpart, ‘抖音’, TikTok is preparing to integrate lightweight, third-party applications directly into its platform. This strategic shift aims to enhance the in-app experience by offering users a broader range of services, from food ordering to ride-hailing, all within the TikTok ecosystem.
App researcher Radu Oncescu discovered references to “TikTok Minis,” indicating that the feature is on the horizon, although it’s not yet in active testing. This development could provide a significant boost to TikTok’s transactional capabilities, following in the footsteps of ‘抖音’, which has seen substantial revenue growth from in-app sales.
TikTok’s foray into mini apps is a calculated move to capture a larger share of the e-commerce market. While Western audiences have been slower to embrace in-app shopping, TikTok’s push towards mini apps suggests a commitment to expanding user activities beyond entertainment. This initiative aligns with the platform’s broader goal of transforming into a one-stop-shop for daily transactions, much like ‘抖音’ has done in China.
As noted, 抖音’s Mini Programs cover all sorts of functions, and are available via the main UI, linking through to a marketplace of alternative, third party tools.

As TikTok continues to explore new ways to drive in-app commerce, the introduction of mini apps could be a game-changer. However, the success of this feature will depend on user adoption and the ability of TikTok to offer a seamless and secure experience. With the precedent set by other platforms like Snapchat and Meta, which have attempted similar integrations with mixed results, TikTok’s approach will be closely watched as it navigates this new frontier in social media engagement.