Take Notes: TikTok teases “a new app for photo posts”

TikTok is preparing to add some still images to its platform. Some users have received a message that alludes to TikTok Notes, an app that appears to be TikTok’s answer to OG Instagram and its emphasis on photos.

Several social media posts have shared TikTok’s message related to its Notes app. “TikTok Notes, a new app for photo posts, is coming soon,” reads the post. “Your existing and future public TikTok photo posts will be shown on TikTok Notes.”

TikTok has experimented with different types of photo posts for years. A spokesperson for the company confirmed to TechCrunch that an app resembling TikTok Notes is in development, though it is not available yet. TechCrunch also located an internal TikTok URL that references the upcoming Notes app. “As part of our continued commitment to innovating the TikTok experience, we’re exploring ways to empower our community to create and share their creativity with photos and text in a dedicated space for those formats,” the spokesperson said.

Though Instagram has gone to great lengths to develop its TikTok-like Reels format, there’s been less talk about TikTok’s attempt to copy Instagram. But the Meta-owned app has invited competition by depreciating photos and, in the words of its Head Adam Mosseri, focusing too much on videos. In response, apps like Dispo have attempted to win over users who miss the image-oriented nature of Instagram’s early days.

Given the scale TikTok possesses and the power of its addicting algorithm, it is well-suited to win over the disgruntled Instagrammers who chafe at that app’s emphasis on video content. TikTok Notes may not be here just yet, but TikTok is already figuring out ways to reward its community with new product launches. It recently unveiled an app called TikTok Lite, which offers a gamified structure that provides gift cards and tips to active users.