The search bar on TikTok videos allows users to easily search for specific videos, sounds, hashtags, or creators within TikTok. It is a powerful discovery tool that opens up the vast amount of content on TikTok in a simple interface.
Locating the Search Bar
The search bar is located at the top of the screen on the TikTok app and website. On mobile, it appears as a magnifying glass icon in the top right. On desktop, it is a search box in the top navigation bar. Tapping or clicking on the search bar opens up a drop down search field.
Searching for Videos
The most common use of the TikTok search bar is to search for videos. Users can type in keywords, usernames, hashtags, or sounds to pull up relevant videos. For example, searching “dance” would show popular dance videos from various creators. Searching “@charlidamelio” would show videos from that specific TikTok creator. The search results are displayed in a vertical feed format similar to the main TikTok feed.
TikTok’s search algorithm personalizes results based on each user’s previous engagement and interests. The search features content you are likely to enjoy watching and interacting with. Searches are optimized to surface trending, relevant videos matching the search terms.
You can scroll through the search feed and interact with videos just as you would on your main feed. Tap on a video to watch it, follow creators, like and comment, share videos, and more. The search feed makes it easy to go down a rabbit hole of enjoyable content based on your search term.
Finding Sounds
Another useful search function is looking up sounds or music. Many TikTok videos utilize the same background sound or music clip. Searching for a sound will bring up all videos using that particular sound.
For example, searching “Sunroof by Nicky Youre” would display all the meme/creative videos that have used that audio. Searching for a unique sound byte or audio from a video is a great way to find the original or other derivative videos.
Using audio search is helpful for finding certain meme formats or viral videos originating from the same sound. Discovering trending sounds is a key part of the TikTok subculture. The search function allows you to quickly look up sounds and then browse entertaining videos made with it.
Searching Hashtags
Searching hashtags or phrases prefixed with the “#” symbol will show videos tagged with that keyword. Hashtags help videos show up in specific niche categories and communities. Some examples are #dance, #fyp, #comedy, #foodtiktok, etc.
Browsing hashtag search results lets you easily find videos around topics you’re interested in. You can use hashtags like #cooking for cooking tips, #workout for fitness motivation, and #art for creative videos. Or search trending hashtag challenges like #FlipTheSwitch.
The hashtag search feed curates both trending and rising niches. It provides an alternative way to fall into viewing loops compared to just browsing your main feed. You can follow hashtags to keep updated on specific types of content you enjoy.
Searching Profiles
Searching for a username or content creator will display that user’s profile and videos. This provides an easy way to check out a TikTok creator you heard about without needing their exact profile link.
For example, searching @charlidamelio brings up Charli D’Amelio’s extremely popular account. From her profile you can scroll through her videos, follow her account, see her followers and likes, and more.
Profile search makes it simple to lookup and connect with creators on TikTok. It helps build fandoms and followings around popular personalities. Searching by username also verifies you have the correct account for someone before following.
Optimizing Video Search
There are tips and tricks to optimize searching for videos on TikTok.
- Use relevant keywords – Choose keywords and phrases people would search for to find your content.
- Tag videos thoroughly – Include hashtags and captions so your videos show up in searches.
- Leverage trends – Use trending sounds, hashtags, and formats for greater discovery.
- Analyze analytics – See which search terms are driving views and engagement to your videos.
- Promote your profile – Encourage viewers to search for your TikTok username and follow you.
Keyword research, tagging, and trend analysis help creators maximize video search traffic. Appearing in relevant searches aids discoverability and viewer growth.
Troubleshooting Search Issues
Sometimes TikTok search has issues finding what you are looking for. Here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Double check spelling – Typos will return no results.
- Try alternate keywords – Use synonyms or related terms for what you are searching.
- Refresh the app – Close and relaunch TikTok to clear any glitches.
- Check your connection – Slow/poor connectivity can disrupt searches.
- Update the app – Ensure you have the latest version installed.
- Report bugs – Inform TikTok if a search feature is not working properly.
TikTok is continually evolving and improving features like search based on user feedback. Reporting any inconsistencies or bugs you encounter helps them enhance the experience.
Filtering and Sorting Searches
TikTok provides options to filter and sort search results to narrow them down further. On mobile, tap the filter button at the top of search results to access these tools:
- Duration – Short/Long videos
- Upload Date – New/Old videos
- Accounts – Verified/Unverified creators
- Sort – Relevance, Likes, Comments, Newest
The filters allow customizing the search feed with your preferences. For example, filter to short videos to quickly view brief, funny clips. Or sort by newest to see the latest content for a hashtag or sound.
On desktop, similar filters and sort options are located in the left sidebar of search results. TikTok is gradually expanding available filters to improve search specificity.
Inappropriate Content Filters
Along with typical filters, TikTok has settings to limit exposure to inappropriate or mature content during searches and in feeds. These include:
- Restricted Mode – Limit potentially inappropriate videos
- Digital Wellbeing – Screen time limits and breaks
- Sensitive Content Control – Reduce suggestive content
TikTok aims to provide a safe, positive environment. But with user-generated content, some videos may be unsuitable for younger audiences. Parental control settings help protect from explicit material during browsing.
Search Privacy
TikTok’s search features utilize anonymized data and algorithms. Personal account details and watch history are not exposed in search to other users.
However, anything posted publicly on TikTok can show up in related keyword searches. Usernames typed in the search bar will display associated profiles. There are risks of people finding your videos or profile if you do not use the appropriate security settings.
TikTok recommends setting your account to private if you wish to control access. Also be cautious about sharing personal identifiable details publicly. Search wisely and stay safe on TikTok.
Conclusion
In summary, the TikTok search bar provides a simple way to dive deep into the vast content available across the platform. It opens up almost endless viewing possibilities tailored to each user’s interests. Key search features include finding videos, sounds, hashtags, profiles, and more. Optimizing video content for search can expand reach and viewership. Overall, search is a core part of the TikTok experience to quickly find entertaining and trending videos in a personalized feed.
