TikTok Becomes Major News Source for 20% of Americans

A recent study by the Pew Research Center indicates that TikTok has emerged as a significant platform for news consumption, with one in five Americans now relying on the app for news updates. This marks a dramatic increase from just 3% in 2020 to 20% in 2025. The research, conducted between August 18 and 24, 2025, involved a survey of 5,153 U.S. adults and highlights a notable shift in how various demographics engage with news.

The rise in TikTok’s popularity as a news source is especially pronounced among younger adults. According to the findings, 43% of respondents under the age of 30 now report regularly accessing news through the platform, a significant jump from 9% in 2020. Additionally, adults aged 30 to 49 have also embraced TikTok for news, with 25% indicating they regularly consume news on the app, up from a mere 2% five years ago.

Changing News Consumption Habits

The overall trend shows that 55% of adult TikTok users now state they regularly get news from the platform, rising from 22% in 2020. This shift emphasizes the evolving role of social media in disseminating information. As TikTok’s user base expands, particularly among younger demographics, its influence as a news source is expected to grow further.

This trend poses significant implications for traditional news outlets. As social media continues to dominate the landscape of information consumption, established news organizations may need to adapt their strategies to remain relevant. The shift in how news is produced and consumed underscores the necessity for traditional media to rethink their approaches in engaging audiences.

Political Context and Future Implications

The changing dynamics of news consumption coincides with broader discussions about TikTok’s ownership in the U.S. Last week, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order facilitating a potential deal that would shift majority ownership of TikTok to U.S. investors. Although the framework for the agreement appears to be in place, finalizing the transaction will require additional time as both parties navigate complex legal and financial terms.

The executive order outlines a new ownership structure for TikTok, stipulating that ByteDance and its related entities reduce their stake to below 20%. Under this arrangement, approximately 80% of the company would be owned by designated investors. This plan is intended to ensure compliance with federal requirements for a “qualified divestiture,” thereby allowing TikTok to continue operating in accordance with U.S. law.

As TikTok solidifies its position in the media landscape amidst these changes, observers will be watching closely to see how this affects the future of news consumption and the role of social media platforms in shaping public discourse.