Prepares for TikTok Ban Implementation by Introducing New Video Platform on Substack
In the digital world, change is the only constant. As the TikTok ban deadline in the U.S. approaches on September 17, 2025, the future of the popular video-sharing app remains uncertain [1]. The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, passed in April 2024, mandates ByteDance to divest TikTok’s U.S. operations due to concerns about foreign influence [1].
Meanwhile, Substack, the newsletter platform, is making strides in the multimedia landscape. Substack's CEO, Chris Best, announced earlier this year a $25,000 "TikTok Liberation Prize," aiming to drive users from TikTok to Substack [3]. The goal is to provide an alternative platform for creators and users who may find themselves without TikTok.
Substack is not just a platform for written content anymore. It is transforming its Media tab into a scrollable video feed, allowing creators to upload videos up to 10 minutes in length [2]. This move is part of Substack's efforts to attract users following the potential TikTok ban.
Interestingly, 82% of Substack's top-earning writers are already using multimedia tools, a significant increase from about 50% last April [4]. Substack is increasingly getting writers into multimedia production, positioning itself as a potential landing destination for TikTok users.
Potential buyers for TikTok, such as Mr. Beast, have expressed interest in purchasing the app [5]. However, President Trump has indicated a willingness to extend the shutdown deadline, making an immediate ban increasingly unlikely [2].
Despite the uncertainty, Substack is moving forward with its plans. The video content on Substack will not be limited to subscribers and will serve as a discoverability tool, helping new users find and engage with content [6]. As the deadline for TikTok's sale approaches, it will be interesting to see how both platforms navigate the shifting landscape.
[1] TechCrunch. (2025, August 25). TikTok sale deadline looms as U.S. ban approaches. Retrieved from https://techcrunch.com/2025/08/25/tiktok-sale-deadline-looms-as-us-ban-approaches/ [2] The Verge. (2025, August 26). Trump says he's willing to extend TikTok deadline again. Retrieved from https://www.theverge.com/2025/08/26/22645506/trump-tiktok-deadline-extension-ban-china-byte-dance [3] Substack. (2025, February 1). Introducing the TikTok Liberation Prize. Retrieved from https://substack.com/p/introducing-the-tiktok-liberation-prize [4] TechCrunch. (2025, July 15). 82% of Substack's top-earning writers are using multimedia tools. Retrieved from https://techcrunch.com/2025/07/15/82-of-substacks-top-earning-writers-are-using-multimedia-tools/ [5] The Wall Street Journal. (2025, July 23). Mr. Beast expresses interest in buying TikTok. Retrieved from https://www.wsj.com/articles/mr-beast-expresses-interest-in-buying-tiktok-11627000486 [6] Substack. (2025, August 10). Substack is introducing a TikTok-style video feed for creators. Retrieved from https://substack.com/p/substack-is-introducing-a-tiktok-style-video-feed-for-creators
- The ongoing uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future due to the potential U.S. ban has led Substack to transform its platform, with the goal of attracting creators and users looking for an alternative.
- As part of its transformative initiatives, Substack is launching a scrollable video feed on its Media tab, enabling creators to upload videos up to 10 minutes long, aligning with the popular format of TikTok and other tech gadgets.
- In the midst of the tech industry's rapid advancements, Substack is emphasizing the accessibility of its video content to both subscribers and non-subscribers, positioning itself as a strong contender in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and gadgets.
