TikTok is testing a new feature that will allow users to tip their favorite creators, assuming they qualify.
As TechCrunch reports, the new tipping feature was first discovered by TikTok creator Jera Bean, who made some TikTok videos explaining how it works. For now, it’s only available to those creators chosen for a limited test and even then they have to apply to take part. The prerequisites are a follower count of at least 100,000, meeting an age requirement, and to be in good standing on the service.
The feature is officially called Tips, and TikTok isn’t taking a cut of the money for now. That could change once testing is completed, though. On the Tips sign-up page Bean found, the feature is described as follows, “Tips let viewers fund your creativity and show their support by sending you payments. Tips will go directly to you and no money will go to TikTok.”
When TechCrunch asked for comment about the feature, all a TikTok spokesperson would say is, “We’re always thinking about new ways to bring value to our community and enrich the TikTok experience.”
Once approved, creators will see a Tips link appear on their profile. Tapping it brings up a “Support this creator!” page displaying the total number of supporters and tips received by this creator. It’s then possible to “Send a tip,” with the options being $5, $10, $15, or a custom amount, and it can be made anonymously by ticking a box. The minimum tip value is $1.
