TikTok Updates Privacy Policy in US, Expands Location, AI, and Ad Data Collection

TikTok has introduced a revised set of terms of service and a new privacy policy for users in the United States, expanding how the platform collects and uses personal data. The changes were highlighted in a report by Wired, which noted that users must accept the new terms before continuing to access the app.

The update follows TikTok’s shift to a new ownership structure aimed at meeting US government requirements. The platform is now operated by TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, a new entity controlled by American-based investors, including Oracle. This transition was mandated to reduce Chinese ownership and allow TikTok to continue operating in the US.

While most users simply tap “accept” to resume using the app, Wired pointed out that many may not fully understand how the new policy changes affect their data.

Precise Location Tracking Now Allowed

Under the revised policy, TikTok may now collect precise GPS-based location data from US users, provided they grant access through their device settings. Previously, the app did not gather exact location information at this level.

According to Wired, similar location tracking practices are already used by other major platforms such as Instagram and X.

AI Chats and Prompts Are Stored

Another major update involves TikTok’s AI features. The new policy states that the company may collect and store user prompts, AI-generated responses, and related metadata from interactions with its AI tools. This marks a newly defined category of data collection.

Data Use for Broader Advertising

The updated privacy rules also expand how TikTok can use user data for advertising. The company can now use collected information not only to personalize ads within TikTok, but also to deliver targeted advertising across external websites and platforms.

The policy also names publishers as official data partners, indicating that TikTok may share information with third parties to support advertising and data acquisition.

Users May Not Realize the Impact

Although the changes are disclosed in legal documents, Wired noted that TikTok has not provided a simple in-app summary explaining how the new rules affect user privacy. As a result, many users may be unaware of the full scope of the changes when they agree to the updated terms.

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