TikTok Tests 'Clear Mode' For Distraction-Free Viewing

pcmag.com:

TikTok is testing "Clear Mode" for distraction-free viewing. When activated, the feature—spotted by users and highlighted by social media consultant Matt Navarra(Opens in a new window)—removes usernames, captions, audio information, and buttons that can clutter the screen.

TikTok confirmed to TechCrunch(Opens in a new window) that the trial is currently in limited testing with select users, who can access the option by tapping and holding the app screen. Look for "Clear Mode" under the "Add to Favorites" menu button, and click to trigger a more serene viewing experience.

There's no word on when—or if—Clear Mode will roll out more widely; TikTok did not immediately respond to PCMag's request for comment.

It would likely be a welcome addition for users who can feel overwhelmed by visual stimuli, as well as those who simply prefer a more streamlined experience as they scroll. As TechCrunch pointed out, it could also prove handy in situations when a username or caption covers important parts of the video. Folks might even stop asking creators to re-upload a cropped clip they can easily screenshot without icons obstructing the view.

Clear Mode comes on the heels of TikTok's new Live Subscription invite-only beta test, which launched last month to give creators another avenue for monetizing content by offering fan perks like membership badges, custom-designed emotes, and exclusive chat.

The social network has been testing a number of quality-of-life improvements recently, including a dislike button, a way to find clips previously scrolled past or lost in a page refresh, and the ability for creators to directly tag, mention, and credit videos.

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