TikTok Emerges as Major Global News Source Amid Shifts in Social Media Consumption

Social media platforms, particularly TikTok, have become dominant news sources for younger generations in the U.S., surpassing traditional TV and news websites as of 2025. TikTok's rapid growth in news consumption is especially pronounced among Gen Z, with 63% of 18-24-year-olds using it regularly for current events, drawn by its short-form, authentic content. This shift is reshaping journalism by encouraging more conversational, community-driven engagement but also raising concerns about misinformation. Beyond news, social media empowers Gen Z globally to organize protests and political movements, as seen in recent uprisings in Madagascar and Nepal, where youth-led activism has led to significant governmental changes or demands for political reform. These movements illustrate how social media tools facilitate strategic communication and mobilization, enabling a new era of youth-driven political activism worldwide. While new platforms like Xena explore niche social experiences such as voice-based interactions, the overarching trend underscores social media's pivotal role in transforming both news consumption and political engagement.