TikTok is like a search engine for users, especially for younger people. The company quietly added Wikipedia info to its search results as a strategic move. It is there for things like The New York Times, Taylor Swift, and Thanksgiving. 

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LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 28: In this photo illustration, a TikTok logo is displayed on an iPhone on February 28, 2023 in London, England. This week, the US government and European Union's parliament have announced bans on installing the popular social media app on staff devices.

TikTok, Wikipedia Collaboration

TikTok's user base is now using the app as a search tool for a wide range of information, including local dining options and news updates. This trend is evident in the evolving landscape of TikTok's search results. 

The Verge recently observed an interesting development within the app as it discreetly incorporated Wikipedia snippets into certain search result pages related to individuals, locations, and events.

Wikipedia links were discovered in the search results for various topics. TikTok's spokesperson Zachary Kizer has officially acknowledged the collaboration between TikTok and Wikipedia to provide users with in-app access to information.

While Kizer mentioned that this feature has been operational for a few months, it appears that the company did not make a formal announcement. It went largely unreported by the media until now.

The Wikipedia addition shows up in the in-app search results as users scroll down. It is placed between related videos. When you click on the snippet, it takes you straight to Wikipedia. 

If you check the bottom of the snippet, you will find links to different sections of the Wikipedia page. However, these Wikipedia snippets are not consistent. 

For example, there are snippets for New York and Los Angeles but not for Chicago. A search for the New York Mets specifically brings up a Wikipedia entry about the Mets' 2015 season. Some users have also come across snippets in different languages, like Russian.

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Incorporating Search Engines Into Platforms

Incorporating Wikipedia snippets and links into TikTok's search results enhances the user experience by providing easy access to trustworthy information within the app. 

That underscores TikTok's dedication to delivering a wide array of content and enhancing its search functionality for its expanding user community.

TechCrunch reported that nearly 40% of young individuals opt for TikTok or Instagram when searching for dining options rather than turning to Google Maps or Search. Google has recognized the potential impact of platforms like TikTok on its search dominance.

Prabhakar Raghavan, a Google senior vice president overseeing the company's search experiences, noted last year that the video app was also increasingly becoming a search engine.

TikTok has introduced additional functionalities to its search feature, although it remains less comprehensive than a typical Google search. Last month, the company started generating revenue from search results by inserting sponsored content amidst organic videos.

TikTok has also partnered with IMDb to enable creators to incorporate links to movies and TV shows in their videos. Some IMDb-related links and snippets can also be found in the platform's search results.

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