TikTok rolls out a ‘Nearby’ feed to display local content in select countries

TikTok is set to launch an innovative 'Nearby' feed that will allow users to discover local happenings and attractions. The new feature aims to help individuals find nearby dining options or exciting places to visit while traveling. Currently, the 'Nearby' feed is being rolled out in the U.K., France, Italy, and Germany. This new functionality was initially spotted during testing in 2022 when it was available to select users in Southeast Asia. According to TikTok, the posts featured in the Nearby Feed are curated based on users' locations, the content topics, and the timing of the posts. This means users can easily find local content related to travel, events, food and drinks, among other interests. For content creators, this feature enhances the visibility of public posts to users in the same city or region where the content was created or tagged. However, sharing location details is optional, and the feature is available only to users aged 18 and older. When a user enables their location, TikTok may utilize GPS data for more tailored recommendations. iOS users will receive a notification when their location is being accessed. It's important to note that TikTok content won't be visible in the Nearby Feed for users under 18, those with private accounts, or individuals who limit their post visibility. Users can also adjust their location settings to explore content from different areas, which can be particularly handy for travelers looking to plan their next adventure. TikTok emphasizes that the Nearby Feed not only enhances user experience but also supports local economies by boosting visibility for small businesses, cultural venues, and local creators. According to TikTok, 46% of users in the UK have visited local shops, eateries, or attractions after discovering them on the platform. With its already robust recommendation algorithm, the introduction of the Nearby feed further sharpens TikTok's ability to deliver hyper-relevant content to its users. The new feature can be accessed directly from the TikTok home screen, where the tab will reflect the user's current location rather than simply being labeled as 'Nearby.' As of now, it's unclear if or when TikTok plans to expand this feature to additional regions.