Post TikTok ban, youngsters pick up editing skills and warm up to alternatives

The ban on TikTok came as a shocker to several loyal fans of the app. Many even confessed about their addiction and said that there was a void that the app had left in their life. However, netizens were quick to look out for other apps to continue producing creative content. No doubt that has meant a lot of learning and un-learning. Bangalore Times finds out more...

Laxmi Krishna, a city-based fashion designer who had over 10K followers on the app, says parting ways with her fans was difficult.“I started using the app during the first lockdown. Making these videos with my family was the best part. The ban on the app just shows that nothing is permanent and there is always an alternative,” she says.
While several used the app as a distraction, for 32-year-old entrepreneur Anusha Murthy, making around five TikTok videos on a daily basis was part of her routine. She says, “Getting over a million likes for my videos definitely fueled my confidence. I stepped out of my comfort zone and tried various dialogues. I’ve also gained some fans who have asked me to post my videos on other social media platforms."

Sukanya Girish, Times Fresh Face season 11 winner, model and actress, says that the ban has forced her to pick up skills like editing and recording videos. "On TikTok, all we had to do was just lip-sync, add music, filters and other effects. After the ban, I looked for video editing apps and software, music mixing apps and such. Making a video is difficult now, because I record, then edit, add music and process it," says Sukanya, who is happy that she learnt something new after the ban.
Similarly, Mohammed, a student and a rapper, says that artistes who want to continue to put their content out there, will not be affected by any ban. "Artistes will continue to find ways to put forth their content. My friends and I who are into rapping and beatboxing, began exploring apps and software that would enhance the quality of our tracks. Most of us have been learning to use these apps on our own," says Mohammad.


For many, coping with change is not an easy task. And having to cope without your favourite app is no different, say experts. “TikTok helped people feel good about themselves and engage in a community that came up with different challenges to keep the momentum going. It helped provide a distraction in the ongoing uncertainty. People whose only source of income was through this app, may find this situation rather depressive and develop anxiety and several mood related disorders. It is of utmost priority to seek timely guidance and therapy," says psychologist, Sharanya Jithin, adding that for those who want a detox, trying out childhood hobbies or learning new skills can help.


If you happen to be looking for the next best option after TikTok, some of these apps may provide a solution...
- Instagram (look out for the reels option)
- For video editing, try InShot, Splice Video editor and Video Leap.
- For effects, try Filto and Wow Editor
- Dubsmash
- Roposo
- Chingari