TikTok launches ad-free subscription tier in UK
▼ Summary
– TikTok is introducing an ad-free subscription plan in the U.K. for £3.99 per month, available to users 18 and older.
– Subscribers will see no ads and their data will not be used for advertising purposes.
– The launch was likely driven by the U.K.’s GDPR, which requires user consent for data collection used in advertising.
– TikTok’s UK managing director stated the ad-free option gives users more control while supporting business growth through advertising.
– TikTok first tested the ad-free plan in 2023, and it is unknown if the offering will come to the U.S.
TikTok is rolling out a paid subscription tier in the U.K. that removes all advertisements from the platform, priced at £3.99 per month (roughly $5.44). The new plan will be phased in over the coming months and is restricted to users aged 18 and older. Subscribers will enjoy an ad-free experience, and TikTok has confirmed that their personal data will not be used for advertising purposes.
The move appears to be a direct response to the U. K.’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) , which requires companies to obtain explicit consent before using personal data for targeted advertising. By offering a paid alternative, TikTok provides a way for users to bypass ad targeting entirely.
“Choice for our community and growth for UK businesses go hand in hand on TikTok,” said Kris Boger, TikTok’s UK managing director, in a statement. “Advertising on our platform is already helping thousands of British businesses reach new customers, increase sales, and create jobs, while our new ad-free option gives people greater control over their experience.”
TikTok first experimented with an ad-free subscription model in 2023. As of now, the company has not announced any plans to introduce a similar offering in the United States.
(Source: TechCrunch)
