With all the buzz about TikTok possibly getting banned in the U.S., short-form video content is still gaining popularity. And now, TED, the famous non-profit known for its TED Talks featuring big names like Bill Gates and Elon Musk, is jumping into the game. On Wednesday, they unveiled their new feature called “TED Shorts,” which has been slowly rolling out to users since May.
The new feature, available on both iOS and Android devices, can be found in the middle of the navigation bar. By tapping the button, users are taken to a swipeable vertical feed with short snippets of TED Talks and other original content. Users can like videos, leave comments, and share with friends, bringing a more interactive element to the app.
TED partnered with Genuin, a platform for generative video experiences, to power this TikTok-like feature. Genuin stated that the new feed will be personalized with AI, curating videos based on personal interests and trending topics to provide the most relevant content for each viewer. It’s like having a personal assistant picking out videos just for you.
Not really sure why this matters, but TED Shorts is a significant addition to an app that hasn’t seen many updates in its 15-year history. Since its launch in 2010, the app has mainly been a hub for users to access TED Talks and other content on their mobile devices. The new feature gives users a taste of their favorite speakers before committing to a full-length video, creating a sense of community within the app.
With a substantial following on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, TED is tapping into the demand for short video content. The launch of TED Shorts comes at a critical time for the app as it aims to boost its growth. The Head of Product mentioned that the app had been deprioritized for several years, affecting its user numbers. Despite a decline in downloads, the app still boasts over 100 million downloads globally.
It seems like everyone is jumping on the short-form video bandwagon, with companies like Netflix also experimenting with a similar feature. As TikTok faces a potential ban, TED hopes users will turn to their app for higher-quality content. In a world of constant distractions, TED Shorts aims to provide a more thoughtful and engaging way to connect with new ideas and others.
Maybe it’s just me, but the company plans to keep evolving TED Shorts to meet user needs and enhance community building. They’re looking into adding new community features and expanding across different platforms to create a global community experience. It’s not just about watching videos anymore; it’s about being part of a personalized digital community.
In the end, TED Shorts is more than just a new feature; it’s a step towards creating a meaningful and engaging platform for users. So, if you’re looking for a break from mindlessly scrolling through low-quality content, maybe give TED Shorts a try. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite video platform.
