Thats why its taking off so much - just like ByteDance's other products. That AI or whatever it is is very, very effective at understanding what you want.
The trouble the incumbents have is how to compete since they can't just change their core products without a backlash. They need to find a new niche. More likely another startup will compete better and FB will try to buy them. This is just like old media's battle with 'traditional' social media.
seems the xenophobic propaganda is being successful. there isnt a single valid arguement that 'tiktok is evil' that doesn't apply even better to facebook or youtube.
It's no sure thing for youtube, but it's worth trying. Clearly there is a demand.
Also, TikTok can't stay on cruise control. As they inevitably push to monetize, their UX will undoubtedly take a hit. A larger audience means more adversarial actors and trolls which could drive away creators. This has happened to nearly every social network.