Facebook is now chasing Chinese short-form video sensation TikTok with the launch of its knock-off Lasso. Available now for iOS and Android, Lasso is Facebook’s answer to the zany mobile lipsyncing playground that’s gained ground with young users, both in China and in the West.
Lasso allows users to create short-form videos, share content across channels and discover the latest trends and challenges. Earlier this year, TikTok’s parent company Bytedance acquired Musical.ly, which gained popularity through its viral lip-synching videos. Naturally, Lasso boasts a robust music library, along with special effects where videos can be recorded in 15-second clips and shared directly on Facebook Stories, with Instagram integration to be released soon.
The app description reads, “Lasso makes it easy for anyone to create and share short videos with fun filters and effects. Follow creators, search hashtags, discover popular viral video trends and join in by putting your own spin on them.” The app also has a large library of music that you can add to videos, in an attempt to attract TikTok users. You can also share videos directly to your Facebook story.
It is curious that Facebook seemingly made little noise about Lasso prior to its launch. The company said it is “starting small” and plans to collect feedback from users and its creators.