TikTok announces Footnotes to let users add context to posts

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TikTok struggles with the spread of misleading and controversial content. While the company already works with professional fact-checkers to deal with serious misinformation, like fake news about elections or health, it’s now trying something new to help users better understand questionable posts.

TikTok is launching a new feature called Footnotes. This system allows approved members of the TikTok community to add helpful explanations or background information to videos that might be misleading or exaggerated. 

It’s similar to what platforms like X/Twitter and Meta’s Facebook and Instagram have introduced recently.

The idea behind Footnotes is simple: when a post seems like it’s missing important context, trusted users can suggest a note that explains or clarifies the content. 

These notes will then be reviewed and voted on by other contributors. Only the most useful and accurate notes, based on community feedback, will appear publicly on the video.

TikTok is starting to test this feature in the US. Anyone can apply to become a Footnotes contributor if they meet certain requirements: they must be at least 18 years old, live in the US, have used TikTok for more than six months, and have no recent rule violations.

Importantly, TikTok isn’t punishing creators if a footnote gets added to their content—those videos will still be eligible for rewards. 

Unlike Meta, which ended its US fact-checking efforts, TikTok sees Footnotes as an extra layer of context, not a replacement for expert fact-checking.

TikTok is still working with over 20 professional fact-checking organizations around the world in over 60 languages. 

These experts handle the most dangerous misinformation, while Footnotes contributors will help provide additional clarity for less serious cases.

However, experts caution that tools like Footnotes aren’t perfect. In today’s divided world, getting people to agree on what’s true can be tough. 

Still, TikTok hopes this mix of community input and professional oversight will make the platform a more informed space, especially as it faces ongoing scrutiny in the US.

What do you think about this new TikTok feature? Do you think it will help combat misinformation on the platform? Tell us your thoughts below in the comments, or via our Twitter or Facebook.