ByteDance’s short-video app Douyin, known internationally as TikTok, has been testing an audio broadcasting function since March 2, local media outlet 36Kr reported.
The feature allows a host to set up a public live voice chatroom, where up to eight listeners can join and broadcast at the same time.
As of now, the function is only open to approved creators by Douyin to join the internal test.
Douyin’s new function shares similarities with that of Lizhi, which is one of the most popular radio and podcast platforms in China, with 46.6 million mobile monthly active users. The company, whose main revenue source is audio livestreaming, made its debut on Nasdaq in January.
Douyin has confirmed this news to media, saying that the live broadcast function is under test mode now. “During the epidemic period, we expect to let our users have better interactions, get more quality content and enrich their lives,” said the company.
This article is part of KrASIA’s “China Brief” section, where KrASIA’s reporters will provide quick daily updates about the tech ecosystem in China.