TikTok adds AI controls and education push: what educators need to know
TikTok is rolling out features to help people better spot and manage AI-generated content. The update centers on transparency, clearer labels, and user control-useful context for digital citizenship and media literacy lessons.
New control in "Manage Topics"
A new setting will let users adjust how often AI-generated content appears in the For You feed. Students who enjoy AI explainers can see more of them; those who find it distracting can turn it down. Pair this with existing tools like keyword filters and the "Not interested" button for tighter control.
How to use this in class
- Show students how to change the AI content setting and discuss when it makes sense to increase or reduce it.
- Set a quick goal: adjust settings, use the feed for 10 minutes, then reflect on what changed.
- Have students create a short "personalization plan" using Manage Topics, keyword filters, and "Not interested."
Transparency: labels, detection, and watermarking
TikTok says it labels AI content using creator tags, AI detection models, and C2PA Content Credentials. The company reports labeling more than 1.3 billion videos so far and is testing "invisible watermarking" to help identify AI material across uploads.
Media literacy activities
- Side-by-side review: a labeled AI video vs. a non-AI clip. Identify signals, discuss credibility, and note the role of labels.
- Explain the difference between platform labels, provenance data (C2PA), and watermarking-and where each can fail.
- Create a class policy for citing AI assistance in projects and presentations.
AI literacy fund
TikTok is investing USD 2 million in a global AI literacy fund to support nonprofits and experts across more than a dozen countries. Expect resources on how AI works, how to spot AI-generated media, and how to use AI responsibly-material you can fold into curriculum and family outreach.
Quick checklist for schools
- Update digital citizenship lessons with AI labels, content credentials, and disclosure norms.
- Give staff a 15-minute walkthrough of Manage Topics, keyword filters, and "Not interested."
- Set classroom guidelines for AI use and source transparency in student work.
- Share a one-pager with families on TikTok's AI controls and how to set them.
Where to go next
Track these features as they roll out and align your media literacy and policy updates accordingly. For structured upskilling, explore AI courses for educators at Complete AI Training.
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