The potential shutdown of TikTok in the U.S. could cause a seismic shift in the tech space, with 170 million users suddenly in search of a new digital home. While this may leave a significant void for its dedicated users, it also presents a golden opportunity for app developers to innovate and meet new demands. As someone who has spent over 20 years in the app development and mobile gaming industries, I see this as a chance to reimagine how we connect, entertain, and engage with audiences.
The Rise of Verticalized Social Apps
TikTok’s unprecedented rise showed us the power of social platforms. Its focus on short-form, user-generated videos captivated audiences by blending creativity with accessibility. If TikTok shuts down, it paves the way for new social apps tailored to specific interests, and verticals such as gaming, fitness, or even learning, to take center stage.
For example, gaming-focused social apps could tap into the growing interest in skill-based games like those offered on Avia’s apps (formerly AviaGames). By merging the competitive nature of gaming with social features—think community leaderboards, in-game chat, or shared tournaments—developers could attract users who are seeking both entertainment and interaction that they once found on TikTok.
Gamifying Social Media
One of TikTok’s greatest strengths is its ability to gamify content discovery. It does this through viral trends, challenges, and rewarding creators with likes, comments and gifts from followers. This approach keeps users engaged, fostering a sense of community and friendly competition. The future of social media could take this concept even further in the next generation of app development.
Imagine social platforms that incorporate actual gameplay mechanics—achievements, leaderboards, and real-world rewards for participation. This would align with the increasing appetite for interactive, skill-based gaming that platforms like Avia are already tapping into. For example, users could earn points or unlock rewards for completing challenges, sharing content, or engaging with others.
This model not only keeps users coming back but also deepens their connection to the platform by creating an immersive, dynamic experience. Social gaming apps could become the new hub for digital interaction, blending entertainment with community-building.
The Importance of Personalization
TikTok users have grown accustomed to hyper-personalized content delivered by advanced algorithms. This creates an opportunity for app developers to harness technology and elevate user experiences even further. From curated content feeds to predictive analytics that suggest games or challenges based on past behavior, modern tech can help developers create platforms that feel intuitive and highly engaging depending on your lifestyle and interests. By analyzing user preferences and gameplay, developers can recommend games and gameplay styles that align with individuals, keeping users engaged longer.
A New Era of Social Entertainment
For app developers, the potential TikTok void is more than just an opportunity—it’s a call to innovate, monetize and create the next big digital movement. The next wave of apps could redefine how we interact digitally, combining social engagement, entertainment, and personalization in new and exciting ways.
As an executive in the mobile app industry, the potential shutdown of TikTok reminds us that no platform is permanent, but the demand for innovative, engaging digital spaces will always endure. By focusing on verticalized apps, gamification, and cutting-edge personalization, we can usher in a new era of social entertainment that resonates with users in fresh and meaningful ways. At Avia, we’re excited to be part of this evolution. Whether through skill-based games or social features that foster connection, our mission is to create user-first experiences that appeal to a diverse set of users. My advice for developers – dream big, take risks, and break barriers to build tech that will define the next decade of digital interaction.
This article was written by Vickie Chen, Founder and CEO of Avia.
