In today’s digital era, social media platforms are constantly evolving to provide new and exciting features for users and creators alike. TikTok, the popular video-sharing app, is no exception. Recently, TikTok announced its plans to roll out Live Subscriptions, a feature that allows creators to connect with their fans on a more personal level. Let’s take a closer look at what we know about TikTok Live Subscriptions and how it will impact the platform.
Eligibility Requirements for Live Subscriptions
Naturally, you might be wondering if Live Subscriptions are available to everyone. While TikTok plans to make it accessible to the public, there are certain criteria that creators must meet. To be eligible for Live Subscriptions, creators must be 18 years old, have a minimum of 1,000 followers, adhere to all community guidelines, and understand that memberships can only be sold to individuals over 18.
Pricing and Paywalls
Although there isn’t a lot of information available on the pricing structure, industry experts anticipate that TikTok Live Subscriptions will mirror the pricing of platforms like Twitch. This means that subscription fees will likely range from $4.99 to $24.99 per month. With this range, creators can offer different tiers of content to cater to various fan preferences and budgets.
How it Works
Currently, anyone can go live on TikTok, but once Live Subscriptions become available, creators will be able to activate “subscriber-only” mode. This exclusive mode enables creators to interact with their premium followers, offering them a more intimate and personalized experience. It’s as simple as flipping a button, amplifying the sense of connection between creators and their dedicated fan base.
Similar Features on Other Social Platforms
TikTok is not the only social media platform exploring the world of subscriptions. Over the past few years, nearly every major social platform has introduced its version of a subscription program. Facebook launched its own in 2018, offering exclusive content and badges to premium fans. Instagram followed suit, granting paying subscribers access to VIP Instagram Stories, live sessions, and badges. Twitter also introduced Twitter Blue, a subscription program that provides features like “undo tweets,” ad-free articles, a bookmark folder, and access to subscriber-only tweets.
Revenue Share with Creators
While it remains uncertain whether TikTok will take a percentage of subscription fees, it’s a likely possibility. Other platforms, such as Facebook, initially allowed creators to build their subscription base before implementing a 30% revenue share model. However, TikTok’s Live Subscriptions offer creators various additional monetization opportunities beyond subscription fees.
Other Ways to Monetize on TikTok
TikTok recognizes that creators are looking for ways to turn their passion into profit. Alongside Live Subscriptions, TikTok offers several avenues for creators to monetize their influence and content.
TikTok Creator Fund
The TikTok Creator Fund provides influencers with the opportunity to earn money directly from TikTok. To join the Creator Fund, creators must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum of 10,000 followers, have achieved at least 100,000 video views in the last 30 days, and adhere to all community guidelines. Compensation from the Creator Fund is based on factors such as views, authenticity, and engagement, although specific details on earnings are not disclosed.
Receive Coins from Followers
Similar to leaving a tip at a restaurant, TikTok followers can purchase coins to reward their favorite creators. These coins can later be converted into real money, providing creators with an additional revenue stream.
Collaborations with Brands
In addition to the Creator Fund and receiving coins, influencer marketing is another way for TikTok creators to monetize their channels. By partnering with brands, creators can be compensated for promoting products to their audience. Creators can identify products they are interested in promoting and directly pitch to brands or join influencer marketing platforms like Shake, where brands seek out influencers to collaborate with.
TikTok’s introduction of Live Subscriptions provides creators with yet another avenue to monetize their channels. By combining Live Subscriptions with existing options like the Creator Fund, receiving coins, and brand collaborations, socially-savvy influencers have even more opportunities to earn income. Simultaneously, fans can engage with their favorite creators on a deeper and more personal level. As TikTok continues to evolve and innovate, it empowers creators to convert their passion into a sustainable career while fostering stronger connections within its vibrant community.
