TikTok Tests Clear Mode — What is It?

Confirmed to TechCrunch, TikTok is testing out Clear Mode, a new feature that allows users to navigate through video on the app without being distracted by interface features such as usernames, subtitles, and audio information.

Twitter user Matt Navarra discovered the feature and uploaded screenshots, as per the report of 9to5Mac. Users will no longer see usernames, captions, or audio information when clear mode is enabled, as shown in the screenshots. According to TechCrunch, some users can even remove likes, comments, and shares from their feeds for a cleaner, distraction-free viewing experience.

Engadget mentioned that the social media platform did not disclose when Clear Mode will become more widely available. It's also worth noting that TikTok may finally opt not to deploy the functionality depending on information gathered from users.

You can access Clear Mode by long-pressing on a video and tapping the appropriate option if you've registered in the test. TechCrunch noted that if implemented, the tool would make creators' work easier by eliminating the need to re-upload clips that users want to screenshot. TikTok users frequently remark on videos using the word "crop" because a caption or button has obscured part of the video they wish to share.

What Does Allison McDaniel of 9to5Mac's Say About TikTok's Clear Mode?

McDaniel noted that TikTok has been beefing up its features in recent months in order to keep ahead of the competition. She agreed that it's good to see something user-focused after so many creator-focused features, adding that this should be a welcomed addition to the platform because it provides users with a clutter-free experience. However, McDaniel doubts this function would be popular among creators because viewers in this mode will not be able to see their usernames or captions on their posts. There's no news on when or if this feature will be available to everyone.

TikTok Is Also Testing a Watch History Feature

In another Engadget report, it mentioned that TikTok may soon make it easier to revisit videos you've already seen.

TikTok is testing a watch history tool that would allow users to see a list of videos that appeared in their For You feed, according to Hammod Oh, a Twitter user who is known for unearthing new features social media companies are working on behind the scenes.

The functionality would essentially allow you to rediscover clips you may have overlooked in a rush or by accident.

There are current ways to go through your TikTok watch history, as TechCrunch points out, but they're not particularly user-friendly or accessible. One way is to go to the Discover page, press search, type an asterisk, and then select "watch videos" from the search filters tab. The app's settings section, on the other hand, would make the watch history feature more accessible.

Engadget said that it's unclear how many individuals have access to the test right now, or when (or if) TikTok intends to make the functionality available to the rest of its user base.