TikTok* has grown from a simple video-sharing app to a global phenomenon, with more than one billion users. The wildly popular platform has transformed how people create and consume content, turning everyday creators into overnight sensations and shaping trends in fashion, entertainment, and culture.
Since its launch in 2016, TikTok’s music note logo has become one of the most recognizable symbols in social media. While the design has stayed largely consistent, it has undergone subtle refinements that reflect the platform’s evolution.
Let’s explore the story behind TikTok’s logo design, its meaning, and what makes it so effective.
The history of the TikTok logo
2016
TikTok’s visual identity began in 2016, when ByteDance launched A.me, an app that let users create and share short videos. Within three months, the company renamed it Douyin (抖音) for the Chinese market.
2017
In 2017, ByteDance took its first steps toward global expansion by launching TikTok internationally. That same year, the company acquired Musical.ly, a popular lip-syncing video app with a strong US presence. ByteDance saw an opportunity to grow by incorporating Musical.ly’s features into TikTok and leveraging its established US user base.
During this period, an unnamed designer created TikTok’s original logo—a simple “d” shape that resembles a musical note. The logo appeared in either black on white or white on black, with cyan and fuchsia accents creating a sense of movement. When TikTok launched globally, the company added the app name below the logo as two separate words: “Tik Tok.”
2018 to present
In 2018, TikTok refined its visual identity by updating the wordmark. The new custom font better matched the logo’s aesthetic, featuring the same cyan and fuchsia effect on the “o” to create visual harmony between the symbol and text. This version of the logo remains in use today.
Unlike many successful companies that undergo major rebrands early on, TikTok has maintained its core design. The platform recognized that its logo resonated with users from the beginning and chose to refine rather than reinvent it.
📚 Resource: TikTok for Business: Step by Step Guide for 2024
Examining the meaning behind the TikTok logo
Unlike many social media companies that work with big-name design agencies, ByteDance took a different approach. An in-house designer who loved concerts and rock music created TikTok’s logo to celebrate the platform’s role as a virtual stage for creators.
The designer drew inspiration from live performances—specifically the contrast between a dark arena and bright stage lights. This inspired the logo’s black core surrounded by vibrant colors. The musical note shape serves several purposes: it represents “Douyin” (which means “shaking sound” or “shaking music” in Chinese) and doubles as a lowercase “d” to reference the app’s name.
Comparing the TikTok logo to rival logos
TikTok’s logo stands out from its competitors in several key ways:
Simple yet distinctive design
TikTok’s straightforward, bold design helps it stand out among competitors with more complex logos. While detailed designs often need updates to keep up with trends, TikTok’s simple approach has staying power.
Strong brand recognition
The minimalist, bright logo is easy to spot even on small screens. By avoiding trendy details, it maintains a modern feel without requiring frequent updates. This consistency has helped build strong brand recognition across all age groups.
TikTok extends its visual identity beyond the logo through careful typography choices. The platform uses Sofia Pro for headlines and Proxima Nova for body text, creating a cohesive brand experience.
Dynamic visual elements
TikTok’s logo captures movement and sound in its digital branding—core elements of the platform’s short, music-driven videos. The turquoise and magenta gradient creates a sense of motion and creativity, while the black background makes these colors pop. This dynamic approach sets TikTok apart from other social platforms’ static logos.
📚 Resource: TikTok Shopping: Everything You Need To Know To Start Selling
Why the TikTok logo works
A memorable logo is a core part of building a solid brand, boosting awareness and helping companies connect with more users. TikTok’s logo succeeds because of:
- Smart use of psychological design and color theory: The logo combines bold black and white with vibrant cyan and fuchsia accents. These eye-catching colors create depth and movement, similar to anaglyph 3D images.
- Distinctive design: The musical note shape, concert-inspired color scheme, and clean typography work together to create intrigue and immediate recognition.
- Consistent branding: By maintaining the same core design since launch, TikTok has built strong brand recognition among its users.
📚 Learn more:
- A Beginner’s Guide to How To Use TikTok
- How To Go Live on TikTok: A Guide for Business Owners
- How To Repost on TikTok: Benefits of Reposting
Create a logo inspired by TikTok’s success
Now you understand what makes TikTok’s logo effective, you can apply these principles to your own brand. A well-designed logo helps grab attention and build recognition for your business.
Ready to create your own logo? Get started with Shopify’s logo maker—no design experience needed.
*The TikTok name and logo featured herein are trademarks owned by TikTok Inc. and/or its affiliates. For more information, please visit www.tiktok.com
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TikTok logo FAQ
Is the TikTok logo trademarked?
Yes, TikTok has trademarked its name and logo. You can find more details in TikTok’s intellectual property policy and on the US Patent and Trademark Office website.
Can I use the TikTok logo in my own designs?
No, you need written permission from TikTok before using their logo. According to its design guidelines, the company’s graphics, icons, symbols, and designs all fall within this policy.
Why did TikTok change its logo?
TikTok has kept its core logo design since 2016. The company made minor updates to the font and colors in 2018 after merging with Musical.ly, aiming to create a more timeless look that aligns with current design trends.
