TikTok began testing a new feature called “Footnotes” in the United States on Wednesday, offering users the ability to add contextual information to videos—a move similar to the “Community Notes” feature already implemented by X (formerly Twitter) and Meta.
The feature, designed to provide additional context and relevant details about content shared on the platform, comes as TikTok continues to navigate regulatory uncertainty in the U.S. over its Chinese ownership.
“It will add to our suite of measures that help people understand the reliability of content and access authoritative sources,” said Adam Presser, TikTok’s head of operations and trust and safety, in a blog post. He cited existing tools such as content labels, search banners, and a fact-checking program as part of TikTok’s broader effort to boost information accuracy.
Footnotes marks TikTok’s entry into crowd-sourced content moderation, following similar efforts by competitors. Meta began piloting its own version of “Community Notes” in March, using technology originally developed by Elon Musk-owned X.
The rollout comes at a critical time for TikTok, which is used by nearly half of all Americans. Its future in the U.S. remains uncertain following a 2024 law requiring parent company ByteDance to divest its stake in the app by January 19. President Donald Trump, who signed the legislation, extended the deadline earlier this month and indicated that a potential deal is still under consideration.
U.S. users can now apply to become Footnotes contributors, TikTok said. Eligible users must be over 18, have an account older than six months, and maintain a clean record with no recent violations of community guidelines.
Contributors with varying perspectives will be able to vote on the usefulness of submitted footnotes, the company added.
