Since its origins, TikTok has opted for the vertical format for its videos, which gave it a naturally unique feature. However, it seems that the social network is preparing to offer a radical novelty such as horizontal mode , although there are certain nuances that are worth noting about this fact.
First of all, this function is in the testing phase; while on the other hand, only some selected users can take advantage of this novelty. In this way, the platform approaches the type of YouTube content, although in a much more dynamic and shorter way.
TikTok will change completely
As stated by TechCrunch, users who gain access to this beta phase of TikTok will have a new button to set the full screen on square or rectangular videos. So, when you press it, the video will take full advantage of the entire screen. A condition that will open the doors to a greater variety of content, so it is curious to see how creators take advantage of this format.
It is not the first time that TikTok has looked for ways to innovate in the application. In fact, at the beginning of this year 2022, the platform came to offer the possibility of recording videos of up to 10 minutes. A measure that users understood as a method to attract YouTube content creators . This length of the videos opened the doors to a greater variety of content, since it was possible to upload a well-explained cooking recipe, tutorials, educational material…
As a consequence of this change, it is quite understandable that, from the app, they are looking for a way to make watching this type of video more comfortable and facilitate the viewing experience . In addition, it is a tool that helps creators, who, on certain occasions, used to include a message warning the user that they must rotate the mobile to see the TikTok video horizontally.
It is likely that many will be disappointed with this feature, since, as we mentioned at the beginning, the nature of the app has always been the vertical format and this mechanic is what made it so popular among social networks and even other platforms such as Instagram decided to copy the method. However, it should be noted that this option will not always be active, so you can scroll the videos horizontally without any obligation.
Arrival date unknown
At the moment it is impossible to know for sure when this function will officially land to see TikTok horizontally for all users. This is what always happens when test versions are released. In any case, it is important to mention that it is possible that the final version presents some changes, the result of the evaluations of those who have been able to test this feature.
From our point of view, having to press a button to rotate the screen seems unnecessary considering that mobile phones already have an automatic screen rotation option. The problem is, really, that you would have to be spinning the device continuously. Hence, TikTok has decided to include this button, although we have to wait to see the final product.