Say it ain’t so — mark your calendars for Sunday, Jan. 19, because that’s when TikTok plans to go dark for its 170 million U.S. users, The Wrap reported.
The move follows a lengthy pursuit of legislation requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to either sell its U.S. operations or face a nationwide ban. Despite ongoing Supreme Court challenges, TikTok has opted to prepare for a complete shutdown rather than simply removing the app from stores.
“TikTok became my lifeline during recovery,” says Atlanta-based creator Megan Ellis, who started posting videos on the app while recovering from multiple foot surgeries after a hiking accident on the Appalachian Trail. “The community helped me stay positive and motivated to return to the trails. Even though I didn’t complete the AT, sharing other hiking trails and their history on TikTok gave me purpose during a difficult time.”
Ellis’ story reflects a broader theme: TikTok has evolved beyond entertainment into a powerful tool for mental wellness and community support. From new mothers finding solidarity in parenting struggles to individuals sharing their mental health journeys, the platform has become a vital resource for millions of people seeking connection and understanding.
But don’t despair. While nothing can truly replace TikTok’s unique community, several apps that offer similar opportunities are ready to fill the void. Here are six to get you started:
RedNote (Xiaohongshu)
This rapidly growing Chinese platform blends Pinterest-style visual discovery with Instagram’s social features. Despite similar Chinese ownership, it’s becoming a haven for former TikTokers. Creator Jasmine Chiswell exemplifies the migration, writing: “I’ll still be here if it stays 🫶🏻 if not you know where to find me ❤️” alongside her RedNote handle. The platform’s “#TikTok refugee” hashtag has already amassed 250 million views and 5.5 million comments.
YouTube Shorts
YouTube Shorts gives creators the best of both worlds — they can make quick, fun videos while growing their regular YouTube channel at the same time. Beyond entertainment, Shorts has become a hub for mental health professionals sharing advice, wellness experts offering guided meditations and individuals documenting their healing journeys.
Lemon8
Despite sharing TikTok’s parent company (and potentially its fate), Lemon8’s serene aesthetic and wellness-focused community offers a refreshing change of pace. The platform excels at mindfulness content, workout routines and mental health resources, though with a more curated, calming vibe than TikTok’s high-energy feed.
Snapchat Spotlight
Spotlight offers TikTok-style entertainment focusing on lighthearted content like fitness challenges and meditation moments. The platform closely mirrors TikTok’s format and is strengthening its position by launching an expanded creator payment program starting Feb. 1, according to the Hollywood Reporter.
Triller
With former TikTok executive Sean Kim as CEO, Triller is positioning itself as a direct successor through initiatives like “SaveMyTikToks.com.” It emphasizes authentic expression and community support, making it particularly appealing to creators focused on personal growth and wellness content.
Instagram Reels
While not the popular solution among TikTokers, Meta’s short-form video features offer solid entertainment and a familiar interface for those comfortable with Instagram.
As one TikTok user noted, “If we want another TikTok, it’s gonna have to happen naturally.” While the platform’s looming departure marks the end of an era, it also opens doors for new forms of digital creativity and community.
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