Influencers React to U.S. Ban on TikTok: What’s Next for 3D Printing Community?

The impending ban on TikTok in the U.S. has left many 3D printing influencers on the platform concerned about the future. With the ban set to come into force on Sunday, influencers like Ben Pendergast, known as itsboyinspace, are worried about the impact on their reach and ability to connect with their audience.

Elegoo, a 3D printer manufacturer, has also expressed disappointment over the ban, as they have seen significant growth on TikTok in terms of followers and views. Despite the ban, they plan to continue investing in their presence on the platform and focus on creating original content.

Other influencers like Mike Prior, aka PRIORity-3D, are also feeling the heat of the impending ban. They believe that TikTok is a unique platform that fosters communities and brings people together in a way that other social media outlets do not. The potential loss of this community has left many influencers worried about starting over on a new platform.

The reasons for banning TikTok stem from concerns about Chinese government access to user data and the platform’s potential for manipulation. However, some influencers believe that the ban is more about money than national security, with ByteDance being forced to sell its U.S. operations to protect its intellectual property.

As the ban looms, influencers are grappling with the possibility of losing their following, brand deals, and connections with other creators. The uncertainty surrounding the future of TikTok has left many in the 3D printing community feeling isolated and anxious about what comes next.

Overall, the ban on TikTok has sparked a wave of concern and uncertainty among 3D printing influencers who have built their communities and brands on the platform. The impact of the ban on their reach, connections, and livelihoods remains to be seen as the deadline approaches.