TikTok has confirmed that it’s currently testing the feature enabling users to upload 15-minute videos, according to a report by TechCrunch on Monday. This significant extension of video length is being trialed in specific regions with a limited user group, though precise details were not disclosed. It represents an increase in the video upload duration on the platform from the previous 10-minute limit.
This development was initially brought to light by social media consultant Matt Navarra, who shared a screenshot displaying a message presented to users with access to this extended option. As per the screenshot, users will be able to upload lengthier videos via both the TikTok mobile app and desktop.
TikTok, originally renowned for its short-form video content, has been gradually embracing long-form content. In February 2022, the company expanded its maximum video length to 10 minutes from the previous three minutes. Prior to that, the limit stood at 60 seconds, having initially extended from 15 seconds.
This increased video duration provides creators with more time and flexibility when sharing various content, such as cooking recipes, beauty tutorials, educational material, and comedy sketches. Currently, when a video surpasses the 10-minute mark, creators typically direct viewers to a “Part 2” video. With this extended time limit, creators may no longer need to create entire video series when sharing content.
This change places TikTok in more direct competition with YouTube, signaling its intent to attract long-form video creators who typically utilize YouTube as their platform. In the past, TikTok was primarily associated with short-form content, while YouTube was considered the hub for long-form content. In recent years, the boundaries between these two platforms have blurred, with TikTok incorporating longer videos and YouTube embracing shorter content through “Shorts.”
It’s worth noting that TikTok is also experimenting with a horizontal full-screen mode in select regions, further encroaching on YouTube’s territory.
However, it’s likely that not everyone will embrace the new extended video duration. TikTok’s popularity stems from its short and entertaining videos, and many users turn to the platform for precisely that. Long videos may not align with the preferences of all users, and TikTok seems cognizant of this, as evidenced by its recent introduction of a feature allowing users to fast-forward videos by pressing and holding the right side of a video.
TikTok has not disclosed whether or when it plans to roll out this change to all users.
