Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian announced his participation in the bidding process to acquire TikTok, planning to leverage blockchain technology to enable users to control their own data. If successful, this acquisition could transform TikTok into a decentralized social media platform, challenging existing data control models.
(Trump extends TikTok sale deadline, open to bids from Musk and others)
Ohanian plans to “bring TikTok on-chain”
Alexis Ohanian posted on the social platform X, stating that he will join the “People’s Bid For TikTok,” a project proposed by the nonprofit organization “Project Liberty,” founded by American business magnate Frank McCourt. The initiative aims to turn TikTok into a social platform where users have control over their data.
It is reported that Project Liberty focuses on advocating for a transformation of the data economy and promoting a shift of control from platform owners back to individuals. Its decentralized social media protocol, “Frequency,” was created based on this concept.
(The urgency of TikTok’s sale, McCourt plans to acquire and push for decentralization)
Ohanian revealed that he intends to integrate the Frequency protocol to bring TikTok on-chain:
“TikTok has changed the game for creators, and its future should be led by them. Users should own their data, and creators should own their audience; that is the key.”
He expressed optimism that “the new version of TikTok will not only be fairer but also greater.”
The future of TikTok in the U.S. is uncertain
In recent months, TikTok’s parent company ByteDance has faced pressure from the U.S. government to sell its U.S. operations or risk facing a ban. The U.S. government is concerned that TikTok may pose a threat to national security, especially regarding data privacy. The outcome of this acquisition battle will determine the product’s future in the United States.
A few weeks ago, Trump revealed that there is still ample time for the deal and expressed belief that many companies are interested in acquiring TikTok:
“We might need China’s approval, but I believe this deal would be profitable for China as well.”
Can blockchain technology change TikTok?
If the acquisition is successful, TikTok will integrate the Frequency blockchain, supporting large-scale social interactions through a unique pricing model and ensuring interoperability among different community applications. This design will not only enhance user data autonomy but also strengthen privacy and security.
Exciting news for the digital world…
I’m officially now one of the people trying to buy TikTok US — and bring it on-chain.
TikTok has been a game-changer for creators, and it’s future should be built by them↓pic.twitter.com/SPq1Ppv1kK
— Alexis Ohanian (@alexisohanian) March 4, 2025
Ohanian emphasized that Frequency’s goal is to create a more transparent and decentralized data management mechanism, allowing creators to directly control their relationships with audiences, while businesses can connect with customers more effectively:
“We are setting a new standard for digital communities; this will be a TikTok truly belonging to the people. Let’s see if we can successfully realize this vision.”
Ohanian’s cryptocurrency involvement
Ohanian has long been interested in cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. As early as 2020, Reddit launched a “Community Points” system based on Ethereum, allowing users to earn token rewards by participating in discussions or engaging in specific forums. Additionally, Reddit has previously issued NFT collectibles on Polygon.
(Reddit cancels blockchain-based community points system! MOON and BRICK token prices plummet over 60%)
Moreover, his venture capital firm, 776 Management, has repeatedly invested in blockchain startups and has participated in raising over $500 million in the crypto space.
Now, with Ohanian entering the TikTok acquisition race, not only could it alter the future of this popular app, but it could also further advance the application of blockchain technology in the social media sector. However, the success of this deal ultimately depends on the U.S. government’s final decision regarding TikTok and the outcome of the acquisition competition.
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