TikTok accused of “stealing” from competitor for new livestreaming app

TikTok has been accused of “stealing” from OBS to make their live streaming platform TikTok Live Studio.

In other words, the users claim that TikTok allegedly copied the code and software made by OBS instead of using it under its open-source and free availability to everyone.

As a user points out, if TikTok does make use of OBS’ code, the platform is required to make the source code publicly available in accordance with the GNU General Public License (GPL), version 2. If TikTok fails to do so, OBS could potentially take legal action against the platform.

Ben Torell, the business developer for OBS, noted that OBS is open to working with TikTok: “We have a commitment to dealing with GPL violations in good faith, and in the case of TikTok/ByteDance we would be happy to have a friendly working relationship with them as long as they comply with the license.”

The Trump Media and Technology Group (TMTG) got in trouble for a similar reason in October, as it failed to make the source code for Truth, Donald Trump’s upcoming social network, publicly available after using the open-source Mastodon to build the site.

While overwhelming evidence made its way to public knowledge, it attacked TikTok and its new Live Studio app that it allegedly copied that of the software from a company called OBS. The Live Studio is known for its broadcast and streams that help its content creators showcase more of their art and earn more.

OBS business developer Ben Torell gave some clarity on the situation and said, “We have a commitment to dealing with GPL violations in good faith, and in the case of TikTok/Bytedance we would be happy to have a friendly working relationship with them as long as they comply with the license.”

Last month, OBS was involved in a controversy with Streamlabs, which also happened to unfold on Twitter. OBS admitted that it didn’t give permission for Streamlabs to use OBS in its name, but Streamlabs used it anyway. After popular streamers like Pokimane threatened to stop using and promoting Streamlabs because of the situation, Streamlabs agreed to drop “OBS” from its name.