Why EU request answer for tiktok?

 EU requests explanations over TikTok's pay-per-view model.

The European Commission has given TikTok 24 hours to reply over a version of the app that pays users to watch videos.

This week saw the launch of TikTok Lite in France and Spain.

Comparing it to the concept of "light" cigarettes, European Commissioner Thierry Breton questioned whether it was "as addictive and toxic."

In a release TikTok promised to respond to the request for information.

It states that there are no present plans to release the Lite app in additional European nations.

Lite's Task & Rewards feature a condensed version of the regular platform gives users the daily equivalent of a few pence in exchange for watching videos and using the app.

TikTok has been asked to provide information on the risk assessment it conducted before to the feature's deployment by the European Commission.

Its worries centre on the effects on kids, addiction and mental health.

With a deadline of April 26 the Commission states that it is seeking information about the measures the platform has put in place to mitigate such systemic risks.

Users can earn coins for completing tasks including watching, liking and sharing movies under the Task & Rewards function.

As per TikTok the highest amount of screen time that qualifies for rewards is one hour every day and the daily earnings limit for users is approximately €1 (£0.85).

In order to receive prizes users will also need to provide proof that they are older than eighteen.

Le Monde a French newspaper that tested the feature claims that users can only receive prizes for watching films that are recommended by their algorithmic feeds not for expressly searching for videos.

The publication states, The users have no choice. The application only awards watching of its suggested material.

Additionally the report made a comparison between the function and a video game saying that it rewards players based on their activity to keep them coming back.

Dr Sarah Hodge, a cyberpsychologist at Bath Spa University claims that the incentives plan takes a completely different approach to achieving social media's objective of maintaining user engagement.

Dr. Hodge, a specialist in gaming and digital addiction told the BBC that they're turning it much more explicit and paying people much more openly.

She also mentioned that although while the benefits are little monetarily they could have a significant impact.

It is very inspiring as well as enjoyable to get rewards and I think it just keeps pulling us back she stated.

Those who are attempting to spend less time on the app may find this to be problematic.

If anyone were trying to minimise the time they're spending on it and there are these additional activities to try and people keep people active that is going to cause friction Dr. Hodge stated.

The EU versus TikTok

With the passage of the EU's Digital Services Act last year the bloc gained greater authority to challenge major digital firms.

TikTok has been asked to respond by the Commission in accordance with these new laws.

The Commission initiated formal procedures against the social media business in February looking into potential violations of regulations pertaining to data protection, child safety and content policing.

TikTok stated at the time that it will continue to collaborate with internet safety experts and assist with the inquiry.