Getty Images and Shutterstock Merge in $3.7 Billion Deal Amid AI-Powered Image Rise
Getty Images and Shutterstock are merging in a $3.7 billion deal, creating a stock photo powerhouse amid rising competition from AI-powered image creation tools.

Starfolk
As the January 19 deadline for a potential TikTok ban in the US approaches, Triller, a short-form video app, is making a bold move to capitalize on the uncertainty. The company has launched a website, SaveMyTikToks.com, which promises to back up all TikTok videos by uploading them to Triller, in an effort to lure creators away from the popular platform.
The website, powered by Amplify.ai, a customer engagement platform acquired by TrillerNet in 2021, allows users to connect their TikTok accounts and download their videos, profile information, and more. After providing an email address, users will receive an alert when their posts have been downloaded and saved, and can then set up a Triller account to upload their content later.
The potential TikTok ban, signed into law by President Biden in April 2024, has sparked widespread concern among creators who rely on the platform for their livelihood. With over 543,000 videos tagged with the hashtag "tiktokban" and 103,000 more with "tiktokbanned", it's clear that creators are anxious about the impact of a ban on their ability to reach fans and generate revenue.
However, the ban's likelihood has decreased recently, as incoming President Trump has asked the Supreme Court to put it on pause, citing concerns about its impact on his ability to manage US foreign policy. Despite this, Triller is seizing the opportunity to position itself as a viable alternative for creators, many of whom have been advising their followers to find them on other established platforms like Instagram or YouTube.
Triller's pitch to creators may face an uphill battle, as many are hesitant to adopt a new app entirely. The company's stock has declined since its IPO in October 2024, and it's currently embroiled in a lawsuit over a $35.5 million promissory note. However, the hiring of ex-TikTok exec Sean Kim as CEO in December 2024 may signal a shift in focus for the company, as Kim has experience in product development and creator monetization.
The move by Triller highlights the ongoing uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future in the US, and the potential consequences for creators and users alike. As the deadline approaches, it remains to be seen whether Triller's efforts will pay off, and whether creators will be willing to make the switch to a new platform.
TikTok did not respond to a request for comment ahead of publication.
Getty Images and Shutterstock are merging in a $3.7 billion deal, creating a stock photo powerhouse amid rising competition from AI-powered image creation tools.
New fitness app Walkstar motivates users to stay active by syncing music with their movement, pausing when they stop and resuming when they start again.
Legendary musician Paul McCartney speaks out against proposed UK copyright law changes, arguing they would allow tech companies to exploit artists' work without fair compensation.
Copyright © 2024 Starfolk. All rights reserved.