TikTok update allows users to post videos up to 10 minutes

TikTok released an update that will allow users to post videos up to 10 minutes long, exceeding the maximum upload time of the previous 3 minutes. TikTok released a statement saying that the platform is excited to start-up rolling out the ability to upload videos that are up to 10 minutes, which we hope would unleash even more creative possibilities for our creators around the world.

Previously, the maximum length of a TikTok video was 3 minutes. This is a platform update released in July. Prior to that,  videos were limited to 60 seconds. The video could not exceed 15 seconds when the platform was launched. 

This change is the latest instance of TikTok that appears to be shifting to be more competitive with other platforms such as YouTube where users can upload videos of any length. The new upload restrictions are reminiscent of the obsolete Quibi, a short-form streaming app with 10 minutes of content designed for mobile viewing.

The alternative would give TikTok creators a greater expansive canvas to supply content with an ability for authentic programming to compete with streaming services, like Netflix and Disney+.

As TikTok opens the door to long formats, other platforms such as YouTube, Facebook and Instagram are paying attention to promoting short content to compete with the former. 

YouTube shorts released in March 2021 have recently exceeded a total of 5 trillion views. Meanwhile, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg said Facebook and Instagram Reels will be prioritized in early February earnings announcements.