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OpenTok — Watch shared TikToks without installing the TikTok app
OpenTok is for those who don’t want to create a TikTok account or install it on their phone, but who still want to watch videos sent from their friends & family. This extension allows videos to play in browser and applies CSS rules to clean up the mobile page.
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Kyle Johnson
Maker
📌
I originally created this extension so I could watch my wife’s TikToks without needing to install TikTok myself. I decided to make it available for everyone based on many threads I’ve seen complaining about this same issue (ex. https://www.reddit.com/r/Tiktokh...).
So far feedback has been positive, but let me know if you have any problems setting it up! Similar extensions could be made for other browsers as it's a basic js/css file at its core. Hope you enjoy!
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@kylejohnsonkj Love how a simple extension like this can make life so much easier. It's great to see something built from a personal need that resonates with others.
@kylejohnsonkj Congrats on the launch, Kyle! 🎉 That’s such an interesting insight behind the project. It resonates with how people love to share experiences. Have you ever looked deeper into the psychology of why watching TikToks together feels so engaging in real life? Would love to hear your thoughts on how that influenced your approach to this extension!
Maker
@helen9 I have not looked into the research but am sure it would be fascinating! Sharing content is such an effective way of expressing your interests to others. Plus it's hard to deny sharing that little dopamine rush with people who you know would enjoy it too. :)
Congrats on the launch @kylejohnsonkj.
So people from countries where Tiktok is banned can also enjoy Tiktok videos w/o using VPN? :)
Maker
@ashitvora Thank you. This is one thing I don't know for sure. If anybody can test I'd be curious to know!
I really like the concept of this, ie not having to have the TikTok app, but then one still has to download another app? I suppose for those who don't want the distraction of doom-scrolling or app tracking, it works, but some solution without having to download another app would definitely be a smidge more novel.
Viewing content without having to sign up for an account is certainly an interesting task - best of luck!
@kylejohnsonkj Congrats on the launch, Kyle! 🎉 Such an intriguing perspective on the project!
Interesting – I am watching closely that drama around TikTok, the US ban and potentially the Canadian ban. Do you think that TikTok will "be legal" in these states? And how can this fact influence your tool? Would it be good/bad for you or without the effect?
Maker
@busmark_w_nika If the TikTok app gets banned I'm sure the web version would go too. I have nothing riding on this as it's a free extension, so if it can help people connect with others for the time being that's okay with me!
I recommend OpenTok if you want to enjoy TikTok videos without installing the app or creating an account. This handy extension allows you to watch videos directly in your browser, without unnecessary complications.
I've had the exact same experience Kyle, although not with a wife but with friends - Makes a huge amount of sense to do this & I think you've really found a great market for this.
Personally I loathe TikTok & try not to use it at all as it definitely is a time-sync, although I know this would be seriously popular.
Best of luck with the launch!!
Maker
@cranqnow Funny enough my wife switched to Instagram Reels so my TikTok consumption has definitely dropped. Same content though, right? 😆 And thank you!
Nice. I really would prefer to watch TikTok outside of TikTok to not be consumed by the algorithm.
How do you see this tool fitting in if TikTok continues to face bans in certain regions or stricter rules in the future? Do you think this extension could adapt, or would it lose its main purpose if TikTok’s availability changes?
Love this! I refuse to download TikTok so this is a lifesaver in my friend group!!