A recent study by the Pew Research Center indicates that TikTok has evolved into a significant news source, with one in five Americans now relying on the platform for information. This figure marks a remarkable increase from just 3% in 2020, indicating a growing trend in news consumption through social media. The study was conducted between August 18 and 24, 2025, involving a sample of 5,153 U.S. adults.
The shift is particularly prominent among younger demographics. The report reveals that 43% of adults under 30 regularly access news via TikTok, a substantial rise from 9% five years ago. Additionally, adults aged 30 to 49 have also embraced the platform, with 25% now consuming news, up from a mere 2% in 2020. Overall, the percentage of adult users who regularly get news from TikTok has surged to 55%, compared to 22% just three years earlier.
Impact on Traditional News Outlets
This significant rise in TikTok’s news consumption highlights the evolving role of social media in the dissemination of information. As TikTok continues to attract a younger audience, its influence as a news source is expected to expand further, posing challenges for traditional media outlets. The implications of this trend could reshape how news is produced and consumed in the future, as younger audiences gravitate toward platforms that offer quick, engaging content.
Alongside its growing role in news consumption, TikTok faces scrutiny regarding its ownership structure. Recently, President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at facilitating a potential deal that would transfer majority ownership of TikTok to U.S. investors. The framework of this agreement has been established, but finalizing the transaction may take additional time as both parties navigate complex legal and financial terms.
The executive order outlines a new ownership structure for TikTok, requiring ByteDance and its associated entities to reduce their stake to below 20%. Under the proposed arrangement, approximately 80% of the company would be held by designated investors. This move is intended to meet federal requirements for a “qualified divestiture,” ensuring compliance with U.S. law.
As the landscape of news consumption continues to evolve, TikTok’s role as a news platform may further complicate the dynamics between social media and traditional news outlets. While its popularity grows, the platform must also address regulatory challenges that could shape its future operations.
This trend signifies a broader shift in how people engage with news, emphasizing the importance of adapting to new media landscapes. The Pew Research Center’s findings underscore the need for traditional media to reconsider their strategies in light of changing consumer preferences.
