If you get an error on TikTok that says “this effect doesn’t work with this device,” it means the video effect you’re trying to use is not compatible with the device you’re using TikTok on. This can happen for a few different reasons:
The effect requires a newer version of the TikTok app
TikTok is constantly releasing new video effects and updates to existing effects. Sometimes these newer effects require an updated version of the TikTok app to work properly. If the TikTok app on your device is outdated, certain effects may not be supported.
To fix this, make sure you have the latest version of the TikTok app installed on your device. In the app store on your device, search for TikTok and check if there are any pending updates available. Install the latest update and then try using the effect again.
The effect requires hardware capabilities not supported by your device
Some TikTok effects utilize advanced hardware capabilities like augmented reality, 3D rendering, advanced camera features, and more. If your device has an older or basic camera, processor, or sensors, it may not support effects that rely on these hardware features.
For example, effects that use face tracking or 3D objects rendered over the camera view require powerful processors and multiple cameras. Older phones may not have the capabilities to run these effects smoothly.
Unfortunately if your device hardware is not sufficient, there is no way to get these advanced effects working. The only option is to upgrade to a newer device with better specs.
The effect is incompatible with your device operating system
The TikTok app and effects are programmed separately for iOS and Android. An effect that works fine on iPhone may not work properly on an Android device and vice versa.
This is because some effects use API functions or libraries that are exclusive to either iOS or Android. The developers have to create custom implementations of effects for each platform.
If an effect doesn’t state iOS or Android compatibility, it likely will not work cross-platform. There is no workaround for this other than using the effect only on devices it was programmed for.
Your region or account may have restrictions
TikTok can implement restrictions on certain video effects for specific regions or user accounts. For example, effects that require augmented reality face filters may be restricted in certain countries.
TikTok also allows parents to enable Restricted Mode for child accounts, which can limit access to some effects. If your account has limitations set by your region, age restrictions, or parental controls, you may not be able to use certain effects.
To resolve this, you would need to use an account that does not have any region or age restrictions implemented on it. Some effects are only available globally for unrestricted accounts.
The effect is still undergoing testing and bugs
Before releasing new effects to all TikTok users, developers first test them extensively. During the testing phase, the effects may only be available to a small percentage of users.
If you are part of the testing group, you may be able to use the effect even though it hasn’t officially launched. Others who don’t have access can see the effect but it won’t work properly.
Give it some time and try again later. Once testing is complete, the effect will roll out to all users. Restricting it initially allows developers to catch bugs and issues before wide release.
Outdated app caches or data on your device
Sometimes the TikTok app data cached locally on your device can become outdated or corrupted. Issues like this can prevent effects from functioning properly even if you have the latest app version.
Clearing the app data forces TikTok to refresh all cached information from its servers. To do this on an iOS device, delete and reinstall the TikTok app. On Android, go to Settings > Apps > TikTok > Storage > Clear Cache and Clear Data.
After clearing app data, effects that previously did not work may start functioning again. This essentially gives the app a clean slate to work with.
Server issues on TikTok’s end
In rare cases, glitches on TikTok’s servers can also cause certain effects to malfunction temporarily. Issues like this are usually resolved within a few hours as developers become aware and fix any problems.
If an effect stops working out of the blue, it may be a temporary server glitch. Trying again later often resolves it once TikTok fixes it on their end.
Using unsupported third-party TikTok apps
Using a third-party TikTok app from the app store instead of the official TikTok app can also cause issues with effects not working properly.
Since these apps are developed unofficially, they may lack proper support for TikTok effects. Sticking to the official TikTok app is recommended for the best experience.
In summary
Effects failing with “this effect doesn’t work with this device” is usually fixable by updating the app, clearing app data, or using a supported device model. In rare cases, it could be an account restriction or temporary server problem.
Check that you have the latest TikTok version, delete and reinstall the app to refresh caches, and use effects designed for your device OS. Avoid third-party TikTok apps. If issues persist, contact TikTok support for help troubleshooting.
With billions of users and thousands of effects, some compatibility issues are inevitable. But TikTok is constantly improving, so an unsupported effect today may work tomorrow with an update!
I hope this overview gave you a better understanding of why you may see this error and how to troubleshoot it. Let me know if you have any other questions!