TikTok Challenges Google Maps with User Reviews in Comments Tab
TikTok Ventures into Local Discovery: Reviews in Comments
TikTok is expanding its horizons beyond viral dances and trending sounds, venturing into the realm of local discovery. As of April 2025, the platform has begun testing a feature that surfaces user reviews directly within the comments tab of location-tagged videos. This move pits TikTok against established players like Google Maps, leveraging its massive user base to provide hyper-local recommendations and insights.
How It Works: User-Generated Reviews Take Center Stage
The new feature integrates seamlessly with TikTok’s existing location tagging system. When users view a video tagged at a specific location, they can now access a dedicated section within the comments to read reviews from other TikTok users who have visited the same place. This creates a dynamic and interactive space for sharing experiences, offering a more personalized and engaging alternative to traditional review platforms.
According to TechCrunch, these reviews are not just simple star ratings. They are full-fledged comments offering detailed insights, tips, and personal anecdotes, providing a rich tapestry of opinions and experiences.
A Threat to Google Maps and Yelp?
The potential impact of TikTok’s foray into local reviews is significant. With its enormous user base, particularly among Gen Z and younger millennials, TikTok could quickly become a go-to source for discovering hidden gems and popular spots. This poses a direct challenge to Google Maps and Yelp, which have long dominated the local search and review landscape.
However, questions remain about the reliability and moderation of user-generated reviews on TikTok. Ensuring the authenticity and accuracy of reviews will be crucial to building trust and credibility among users.
The success of TikTok’s local review feature will depend on its ability to provide a valuable and trustworthy resource for users seeking recommendations. If TikTok can effectively leverage its community to curate high-quality reviews, it could disrupt the local search market and become a major player in the discovery of places and experiences.
