Reddit’s Cofounder Alexis Ohanian Makes Bid For TikTok, Intends To Bring It On-chain

Reddit’s cofounder Alexis Ohanian is keen on acquiring Chinese social media platform TikTok with plans to bring it on-chain. While details of his plan are sparse, Ohanian seeks to use Web 3 to change the concept of social media ownership.

Bringing TikTok Onchain Will Change The Landscape For Creators, Says Reddit Co-founder

Ohanian has formally thrown his hat in the ring to acquire TikTok, joining a laundry list of individuals angling to purchase the social media platform. The Reddit cofounder joins Frank McCourt’s bid for TikTok, serving as a strategic adviser for Project Liberty.

“I’m officially now one of the people trying to buy TikTok US – and bring it on-chain,” wrote the Reddit cofounder.

Ohanian confirmed his interest via X (formerly Twitter) that he is keen on bringing TikTok on-chain after the purchase. For the serial entrepreneur, integrating Web 3 offerings into the app will change the concept of ownership on the embattled platform.

Without disclosing details, it appears that the users of the Ohanian-led TikTok will own their data while creators will own their audience

“We’re setting a new standard for what’s possible in digital communities,” said Ohanian. “A TikTok for the people, by the people. Let’s see if we can pull this off.”

How Will An On-chain TikTok Look Like?

Apart from changing the landscape for ownership, Ohanian’s post did not offer key details about TikTok’s future. However, pundits say the platform could feature on-chain monetization via micropayments in cryptocurrencies. Particularly, one of the assets tapped for the Crypto Strategic Reserve is expected to fill the role.

Another potential perk includes the integration of non-fungible tokens (NFTs) akin to Reddit’s experimentation with digital collectibles.

It is unclear which blockchain Ohanian will lean on in the push to bring TikTok on-chain. There are whispers of centralized Layer 2 blockchains but Reddit’s botched attempt could see a preference for Layer 1 chains.

However, Ohanian and Project Liberty members will have to achieve regulatory compliance in the quest to bring TikTok on-chain. Although the SEC is dismissing crypto lawsuits against exchanges, Ohanian has to proceed with caution.