Many TikTok users have run into an issue where sounds or music they have used in TikTok videos do not work when trying to use them in Snapchat. There are a few potential reasons why TikTok sounds might not work properly in Snapchat.
Licensing Issues
One major factor is licensing agreements. TikTok has licenses with record labels, music publishers, and societies to use portions of copyrighted songs in TikTok videos. However, these licenses may not extend to other platforms like Snapchat. So a song you can use legally in TikTok may be restricted from use in Snapchat without a separate agreement.
Format Compatibility
There can also be technical issues relating to format compatibility. TikTok and Snapchat handle sound formats and files differently when it comes to uploading, storing, and integrating sounds into videos. A TikTok sound may not translate properly into a compatible format to work in Snapchat.
Restrictions on Sharing
It’s also possible there are restrictions in place by TikTok or rights holders that prevent easily transferring sounds outside of TikTok to other apps. The licenses may limit the ability to extract and reuse sounds freely in other contexts.
Steps to Try to Get TikTok Sounds Working in Snapchat
If you really want to get a specific TikTok sound working for a Snapchat video, there are a few things you can try:
1. Convert and import the sound file
You may be able to convert the TikTok sound into a format supported by Snapchat like an MP3, then import it into Snapchat as you would any other music file. There are online converters that can switch TikTok sound files into MP3.
2. Record the audio directly
Alternatively, you can simply record the original audio directly from TikTok, then import the new recording into Snapchat. Apps like Shazam or SoundHound can identify and capture TikTok audio.
3. Use video editing software
Another option is to download the TikTok video containing the sound. Then use video editing software to isolate the audio track and export just the sound clip. Import that extracted audio into your Snapchat video.
4. Find alternative sources
In some cases, the same sounds used in TikTok videos may be available from the original source. Search for the song or refrain to see if you can find the version from the record label, artist, or other provider that can be used in Snapchat.
Why Sounds May Not Legally Transfer Between Apps
There are a few core reasons why sounds shared on one platform may not be authorized for use elsewhere:
licensing restrictions
Music, sounds, and other audio clips played on social media are typically licensed specifically for use on that platform only. The platform pays royalties for the content to be shared on their service but not others.
Copyright law
The copyright holder determines who has rights to reproduce, distribute, or publicly perform a work. They may limit audio sharing to the app where it was originally posted.
Terms of service
The terms and conditions of apps like TikTok or Snapchat may prohibit extracting audio or video to reuse off platform without permission. This maintains control over their content.
Exclusive deals
Some platforms strike exclusive deals to host specific music or sounds that cannot legally be shared elsewhere. For example, a song may be licensed solely for TikTok usage.
Table Comparing Platform Audio Rights and Restrictions
Platform | In-App Audio Rights | Off-Platform Restrictions |
---|---|---|
TikTok | Can use clips of songs with rights holder permission | Sounds can’t be reused off TikTok without separate rights clearance |
Snapchat | Full songs can be shared with artist/label deals | Restricts ripping audio from other platforms without authorization |
Short clips fall under “fair use” exceptions | No downloading content for use beyond Instagram feed | |
YouTube | Royalty payments enable full tracks to be used | Songs blocked if rights holder objects to external sharing |
Workarounds Carry Risks
While it may be technically possible to re-record or convert a TikTok sound for Snapchat as discussed earlier, users should exercise caution. There are risks associated with attempting to circumvent licensing restrictions or platform terms of service:
Copyright infringement
If the audio is used without proper rights clearance, the copyright holder could file a DMCA takedown or lawsuit. Fines can be $750 to $30,000 per infringement.
Banned accounts
Apps like TikTok and Snapchat could ban your account for violating their terms against scraping content or audio from their platform.
Legal action
The platforms themselves may pursue legal action against terms of service violations, including seeking damages.
Poor audio quality
Even if you manage to capture TikTok audio, the recording quality may suffer significantly during transfer.
Best Practice: Original Content
Given the licensing issues and potential risks, the safest approach is creating original audio content for Snapchat rather than repurposing TikTok sounds. Some options include:
Compose a fresh song/melody
Write your own new tune or lyrics to sing/perform. This avoids any legal issues.
Use public domain/Creative Commons music
These works have licenses allowing free reuse and remixing. Search catalogs for options.
Commission a custom soundtrack
Hire composers on sites like Fiverr to create exclusive music for your Snapchats.
Collaborate with other creators
Team up with musical friends to co-produce tracks that can be shared across platforms.
Conclusion
While TikTok sounds generally don’t translate directly for use in Snapchat, you have a few workarounds like re-recording the audio or finding alternative sources. However, your best option is creating new original content exclusively for Snapchat. This avoids any licensing issues or terms of service violations that could get accounts banned or face legal action. Protect yourself and produce fresh audio that engages your Snapchat audience.