Despite the apps' privacy policies stating that user information may be shared within ByteDance's corporate group, it's unclear if the apps could be integrated into TikTok. ByteDance has a history of launching test apps and discontinuing those that don't succeed. The launch of these apps could lead to regulatory scrutiny due to concerns about data privacy and potential influence by the Chinese government. ByteDance has also been accused of violating OpenAI’s terms of service by using its large language models to create a competing model.
Key takeaways:
- ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, has launched four new AI apps named Cici AI, Coze, ChitChop, and BagelBell, which are powered by OpenAI’s GPT technology.
- The apps were launched without any mention of ByteDance in their websites or terms of service, and are run by ByteDance subsidiaries.
- Of the four apps, only Coze is currently available in the U.S., and none are available in the EU. The apps are still in the testing phase.
- There are concerns that the Chinese government could use these apps to collect private information or influence users, as the apps' privacy policies allow for user data to be accessed by ByteDance employees in China.