ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of the social network TikTok, has just launched another application in France and Spain: TikTok Lite. This application offers its users, among other things, rewards in the form of virtual points, depending on the time spent watching videos. These virtual points, currently only available on Android devices, can be converted into Amazon vouchers, gift cards via PayPal, or currency to spend during live streams.
A launch that raises questions, to say the least, in a context where the‘screen addiction increasingly concerned.
For Justine Atlan, The Association's Chief Executive Officer, interviewed on RMC, expressed serious concern:
«We are already in a reward system with our brains when we look at screens, with a continuous renewal of content and notifications that excite our brains and keep us coming back for more. It's similar to substance addiction. And now they're adding another concept that we know is addictive: the excitement of being able to earn money.».
«They directly imply this relationship between time spent and money, which is still very dangerous.».
She also points out that, even though the application is theoretically reserved for adults, it is a cause of great concern both toThe age verification requirements are not met and are easily circumvented, effectively exposing minors to the temptation to earn money by increasing their screen time.
« Gambling addiction is increasingly being denounced, and with this app there is a dangerous combination”
Watch the clip again here
