January 21: How China is trying to unaddict kids from social media

Four ways Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, are modifying access to children aged 14 and below.

Source: Big Technology
Published: September 2021

How China is trying to unaddict kids from social media

As of June 1st, the Chinese government mandated a change in social media access to reduce app addiction in children. The increased regulation was in response to government concerns over decreased school grades and the lack of in-person socializing. Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, particularly faced criticism for presenting ‘distressful’ material to minors. 

Here are four ways Douyin are modifying access to children aged 14 and below:

1. 40 minute daily time limits that cannot be overridden

2. App lockout between 10 pm - 6 am

3. 5 second pauses in between videos

4. Educational content inserted into the feed

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