ByteDance to Discontinue TikTok Music by November 2024

ByteDance has announced its decision to shut down TikTok Music, the global music streaming service, by November 28, 2024. The move comes after facing strategic challenges, including difficulties securing key music catalogs and a shift in the company’s focus.

A statement on TikTok Music’s website confirms the news: “We regret to inform you that TikTok Music will be closing on 28 November 2024.”

Launched in 2023 in countries like Brazil and Indonesia, and later expanded to regions such as Australia, Singapore, and Mexico, TikTok Music initially gained traction. However, despite early success, ByteDance struggled to compete with established platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, particularly after a dispute with Universal Music Group over royalties led to the withdrawal of its music catalog.

ByteDance is now redirecting its focus toward enhancing music discovery on the TikTok platform. The company’s "Add to Music" feature allows users to incorporate TikTok tracks into popular streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music. Ole Obermann, TikTok’s Global Head of Music Business Development, said, “Our Add to Music feature has enabled millions of track saves to partner platforms. We’re discontinuing TikTok Music to concentrate on expanding TikTok’s role in driving music discovery and value for artists, songwriters, and the broader music industry.”

Users have until October 28, 2024, to transfer their playlists to other streaming platforms. All subscriptions will be canceled, and refunds will be provided. After November 28, all user data will be permanently deleted as part of the platform’s closure.

This decision marks a significant pivot for ByteDance, as it moves from competing in the music streaming industry to strengthening partnerships with existing services, while enhancing TikTok’s core focus on music discovery and integration.