Algorithm problems hit newly formed U.S. entity
TikTok’s newly created U.S. operation is struggling out of the gate as technical problems continue to disrupt the app’s core features. Users have reported issues with the recommendation algorithm, inaccurate view counts and slow load times, fueling frustration across the platform.
According to data from analytics firm Sensor Tower, uninstalls of TikTok in the United States have jumped by 150 percent compared with the previous three months. While TikTok’s U.S. daily active users have risen about 2 percent over the same period, engagement has been flat week over week, suggesting growth is stalling.
TikTok has attributed the problems to a power outage at a data center that caused “multiple bugs,” but the company has not provided a clear timeline for when a full fix will be deployed.
Users explore alternatives
As dissatisfaction grows, some users appear to be looking elsewhere. An independent app called UpScrolled has surged in popularity in recent days, climbing to the ninth most-downloaded app in the U.S. App Store and becoming the second most popular social app, behind Threads.
The momentum is not limited to the United States. UpScrolled has also reached the top five in both the U.K. and Australia, signaling broader interest tied to TikTok’s recent turbulence.
UpScrolled sees rapid growth
Estimates from App Figures show UpScrolled was downloaded about 41,000 times between Thursday and Saturday, shortly after TikTok’s U.S. joint venture was formalized. Prior to that, the app averaged fewer than 500 downloads per day.
The sudden influx of users has strained UpScrolled’s infrastructure. The company acknowledged temporary performance issues and asked users for patience as it works to scale its servers.
A different social media approach
Developed by an Australian founder, UpScrolled resembles Instagram in design, allowing users to post photos and short-form videos. Its default feed is chronological rather than algorithm-driven, though recommendations are still included.
The app is privately funded, currently ad-free, and positions itself as a platform focused on fairness and visibility. The company says ads may be introduced in the future but emphasizes its goal of giving every post an equal chance to be seen.
Short-form video market in flux
This is not the first time TikTok instability has benefited a smaller rival. Previous controversies briefly boosted alternative platforms, though many failed to sustain long-term growth.
Still, with TikTok navigating ownership changes and ongoing technical challenges, competitors like UpScrolled may see an opening to attract users seeking a more stable and transparent short-form video experience.
