TikTok’s been branching out into different video markets outside short-form video recently. However, we’ll be honest when we say we didn’t expect TikTok to dive into virtual reality (VR) at this time. According to a report done by CNBC, TikTok’s parent company ByteDance just acquired Pico, a VR headset developer based in China.
ByteDance told CNBC it plans to use Pico’s VR technology to act as a foundation for its venture into the VR space.
Does this mean VR is coming to TikTok?
While this is a significant step towards TikTok having features based around VR technology one day, it’s not likely to be coming any time soon. Right now, it looks like it’s a long-term investment that will eventually allow TikTok to venture into VR. Currently, Facebook is making a massive push into VR, so this move from TikTok likely ensures the company doesn’t fall behind the pack when virtual reality becomes more mainstream online.
What does this mean for creators?
Right now, the acquisition won’t have any effect on creators. However, it’s intriguing to see TikTok’s plans with Pico and what the platform would like with VR support. With TikTok also venturing into longer-form video, we could eventually see longer videos with VR support on TikTok. It’s also possible TikTok could venture into virtual gaming, challenging the likes of Facebook. Still, at this time, that doesn’t seem to be coming any time soon.
The Verge expects the acquisition might affect Pico’s rollout plans for its virtual reality headsets. We’ll have to see how ByteDance handles the company to see if there are any setbacks with its release schedule.