I think there's a little too much focus on the algorithm in these comments, and not enough focus on the content itself. The quality of content on Tiktok is just

I think there's a little too much focus on the algorithm in these comments, and not enough focus on the content itself. The quality of content on Tiktok is just worlds better than anything on Reels. Reels is full of visually interesting content like hydraulic presses, food preparation, construction timelapse, etc. And that content is engaging for a few minutes, it's unique, it's fine. But it doesn't keep you coming back. Tiktok has a rich mix of content that's silly, educational, political, impressive, sexy, etc. The amount of things I learn on Tiktok and bookmark is incredible. And Tiktok's features like stitches, duets, and shared audios make it really easy to keep a conversation going, letting creators reference each other async. Tiktok has its own unique multimedia language, using audio and visual composition to express memes. Creators choose the tone they wish to present a meme (eg use a joke audio like 'insert cash or select payment type' but pair it with serious commentary on how mental health professionals request payment at the end of a therapy session). That's why it's endlessly interesting and engaging, and to me that's the real 'secret sauce' that the copycats never can capture.