TikTok is testing Google leads to its search pages

TikTok search outcomes pages may quickly have a hyperlink to Google outcomes.

A characteristic noticed by app researcher Radu Oncescu reveals the TikTok search outcomes web page together with a hyperlink to go looking Google for a similar question (by way of Insider). In one other screenshot shared by Oncescu, a TikTok pop-up reads, “TikTok doesn’t endorse or take duty for search outcomes from Google.”

Google declined to remark. TikTok didn’t instantly reply to The Verge’s request for remark however confirmed to Insider that it’s testing the characteristic in some markets.

The addition of Google outcomes linked within the TikTok app is the newest and most notable instance of the shortform video app leaning into search. Earlier this month, we seen that TikTok had quietly been including Wikipedia snippets that hyperlink on to the positioning. Snippets didn’t seem for each search however appear to be showing for some areas, firms, and people. TikTok spokesperson Zachary Kizer advised The Verge that the characteristic had been dwell for just a few months.

The backdrop to a Google and TikTok partnership is the possibly pivotal antitrust case in opposition to Google that’s presently underway. The US Division of Justice alleges that Google has unlawfully held on to its search dominance by costly offers with firms like Apple that preserve Google because the default search engine on merchandise.

On the identical time, TikTok may very well be underneath extra scrutiny by regulators after the European Fee named the corporate in its record of “gatekeepers” that should abide by new guidelines underneath the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The DMA is an try to curb anti-competitive practices at main tech firms, and listed companies might be required to adjust to sure guidelines based mostly on how they’re being regulated. Messaging apps, for instance, should be interoperable with different platforms, and customers should be capable to set up third-party apps and app shops.