TikTok is a global hub for short, engaging videos, but it can be frustrating when links shared via messages or social apps open in a browser instead of the TikTok app—or don’t open at all.
This issue, common on both Android and iPhone, can disrupt your experience. Whether it’s a video link from a friend or a creator’s profile, you want it to load seamlessly in the app.
This guide provides clear, practical steps to fix TikTok links not opening on Android and iPhone, ensuring you’re back to scrolling in no time.
Easy Steps to Fix TikTok Links Not Opening
1. Verify the TikTok Link
Ensure the link is valid and not expired. Copy the link and paste it into TikTok’s web version on a browser. If it doesn’t load, ask the sender to share a fresh link, as expired links are a common issue reported on platforms like Reddit.
2. Restart the TikTok App
Close TikTok completely to clear temporary glitches. On Android, swipe TikTok away from recent apps. On iPhone, swipe up from the bottom of the screen and dismiss TikTok. Reopen the app and try the link again.
3. Update the TikTok App
An outdated app may struggle with link handling. Check for updates:
- On Android: Open the Google Play Store, search for TikTok, and tap “Update” if available.
- On iPhone: Go to the App Store, find TikTok, and tap “Update.”
Updating fixes bugs that could cause links to redirect to browsers.
4. Set TikTok as the Default App for Links (Android)
Android allows apps to handle their own links, but this setting might be disabled.
- Long-press the TikTok app icon, tap “App Info,” then select “Set as default.”
- Enable “Open supported links.”
- Test the link again. This step ensures TikTok links open in the app instead of Chrome or other browsers.
5. Use the Notes App Workaround (iPhone)
iOS doesn’t offer a direct setting to force TikTok links to open in the app, but a workaround can help:
- Tap and hold the TikTok link, select “Copy.”
- Open the Notes app, paste the link, and tap it.
- Choose “Open in TikTok” if prompted. This method has worked for many iPhone users to bypass Safari redirects.
6. Clear TikTok’s Cache
Corrupted cache data can disrupt link functionality.
- On Android: Go to Settings > Apps > TikTok > Storage > Clear Cache.
- On iPhone: Open TikTok, go to Profile > Settings and Privacy > Cache & Cellular Data > Clear Cache.
Clearing the cache refreshes the app without affecting your account. If issues persist on Android, try “Clear Data” (you’ll need to log in again).
7. Reinstall the TikTok App
If the cache clear doesn’t work, uninstall and reinstall TikTok to eliminate corrupted files.
- On Android: Long-press TikTok, select “Uninstall,” then reinstall from the Google Play Store.
- On iPhone: Long-press TikTok, tap “Remove App,” then reinstall from the App Store.
Log in and test the link.
8. Check for TikTok Server Issues
If links still don’t open, TikTok’s servers might be down. Visit Downdetector’s TikTok page to check for outages. If there’s a spike in reports, wait a few hours and try again. Follow @TikTokSupport on X for updates.
9. Disable VPN or Ad Blockers
VPNs or ad blockers can interfere with TikTok’s link handling. Disable any VPN app or ad-blocking extensions, then try the link again. Re-enable them after testing to maintain security.
10. Contact TikTok Support
If none of the steps work, reach out to TikTok’s team. Visit TikTok’s Help Center and submit a request with:
- Your device details (e.g., iPhone 14, Samsung Galaxy S23).
- The problematic link.
- A description of the issue (e.g., “Links open in Safari instead of TikTok”).
Attach screenshots if possible. Responses may take 24–48 hours.
