TikTok has become a wildly popular app across the globe, connecting users through the power of short-form videos. While the app’s algorithm tailors content based on your location, changing your TikTok location can help broaden your horizons and give you a better reach.
There are many ways to change your virtual location in this article – from switching your SIM card to editing Content language on TikTok. And one of the most reliable methods – using a VPN, it will also help you to discover hidden content. Not only will a VPN help you change your virtual location, but it can also make your scrolling safer by encrypting your internet traffic.
In this article, we'll explore how to change your TikTok location using a VPN and other methods step-by-step, so you can discover new content and connect with users from all over the world.
Change TikTok location with a VPN
- Pick a safe and reliable VPN provider. We recommend ExpressVPN, now 49% off.
- Sign up for the subscription and install the VPN app.
- Connect to a server in your preferred location.
- Open the TikTok app.
- Start browsing through your ‘For you’ page safely.
How does changing your TikTok region with a VPN work?
A VPN allows you to connect to the internet through a server located in a different country or region. When using a reputable VPN, it encrypts your internet connection and masks your IP address, making it appear that you are accessing the internet from a different location.
By changing your IP address, TikTok thinks you are located in the region where the VPN server is located, allowing you to access content that may not be available in your current location. This means that if you're based in the US and use a VPN to connect to a server in Japan, TikTok will think you're in Japan and show you content that's popular in that region.
Using a VPN to change your TikTok location not only allows you to access region-specific content but also offers many safety benefits. VPN providers typically offer advanced security features, such as ad-blockers, malware protection, and phishing filters, which can help keep you safe online.
Moreover, VPNs can help protect your data and online privacy by encrypting your internet traffic and masking your IP address, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activities. This is especially important if you're using public Wi-Fi networks or connecting to unsecured internet connections, which are often targeted by hackers and cybercriminals.
Why TikTok doesn’t work with a VPN
As may happen sometimes, there could be some issues while changing your country on TikTok with a VPN. Here are a few possibilities for why a VPN doesn't work with TikTok:
- VPN blocking. TikTok may have implemented measures to block VPN traffic, making it difficult for VPNs to bypass geo-restrictions.
- Incompatible VPN protocol. Some VPN protocols may not work well with TikTok, causing connection issues or poor performance.
- Server overload. If the VPN server you're using is overloaded with traffic, it may affect your connection to TikTok, causing slow speeds or interruptions.
If you're having trouble using a VPN with TikTok, try changing the VPN server location or protocol, updating the VPN software, or contacting the VPN provider for support.
Switch Sim card to change country on TikTok
One lesser-known method to change your virtual location is by switching your SIM card to a phone number from a different country. TikTok uses SIM card information to decide your ‘For You’ page, so this step-by-step guide might be helpful to change what you see on your feed. Here is what you have to do:
- Purchase a SIM card from the preferred region
- Put the SIM card into your device
- Reinstall the TikTok app
- Open TikTok and enjoy
This can be especially useful for travelers or those who have relocated to a new country. By switching your SIM card, you can not only change your TikTok location but also your phone number and mobile carrier.
Although as it can trick TikTok into thinking that you are on a different location, switching SIM cards frequently can be inconvenient and time-consuming. It may also lead to issues with your phone number, such as missing important calls or messages while your SIM card is inactive.
Additionally, SIM switching may not always be effective in changing your TikTok location, as the app may still track your IP address. Thats why using a reliable premium VPN service, like ExpressVPN is a more credible way to spoof your location on TikTok.
Edit Content language to see TikTok videos from other locations
By default, TikTok will display content in your device's language and location settings, but changing the language can introduce you to new creators and content. Changing the content language setting in your TikTok account can help you access videos from creators in other regions and languages. Here is how to change preferences on Tiktok:
- Go to your profile in the TikTok app.
- Tap three dots or lines in the right top corner.
- Click on ‘Content preferences’ in the section called ‘Content & Activity
- In the ‘Video languages’ change your preferences.
TikTok's algorithm uses language and location settings to curate the For You page, showing you content that it thinks you will enjoy. By changing the content language setting in your account, you can expand your reach and see content from creators in different regions and languages.
However, changing the language may impact the relevance of the content you see on your For You page, which could affect your overall TikTok experience. Moreover, changing the language setting may not always guarantee that you'll only see content in that language, as the algorithm may still show you videos based on your past activity on the app. VPN apps like ExpressVPN should save you some time and effort to get the advantages of changing TikTok country while keeping you safe online.
Follow creators from different regions on TikTok
By following creators from different regions, you can access a variety of content and gain more reach from different countries. Here is how to find creators from different regions on TikTok and how to follow them:
- Open the TikTok app and go to the ‘Discover’ section
- Search for the most popular creator from other regions
- Click on the ‘Follow’ button on their profile
- That’s it – their content will be included in your ‘For You’ page recommendations.
Following creators from different regions on TikTok can also increase the diversity of content that you see on your For You page. TikTok recommends content based on who you follow and the types of videos you interact with most, so by following creators from different regions, you are exposing yourself to a wider range of content.
There are possible downsides with this method – the algorithm may not always show you content from creators you follow, so you may not see their posts regularly or at all. If you are searching for more ensuring way to change your location on TikTok for various reasons including your safety, you should consider a premium VPN application – in most cases they have a money-back guarantee policy so you can try it risk free.
How does TikTok detect users’ locations?
TikTok uses a combination of methods to detect users' locations. Here are some of the ways TikTok may identify a user's location:
- GPS. TikTok may use the device's GPS to determine the user's location. GPS provides the most accurate location information but requires the user to enable location services. You can spoof your location with a premium VPN like ExpressVPN.
- IP address. TikTok may use the user's IP address to estimate their location. The IP address can be used to determine the user's city or region, but not their exact location. You can hide your IP address with a VPN app.
- WiFi network. If the user is connected to a WiFi network, TikTok may use the network’s location to determine the user's location. Learn the best VPNs to avoid this issue.
- SIM card. TikTok may also use the user's SIM card to determine their location. This method is typically used when the user is traveling and has switched to a local SIM card.
- User input. TikTok may ask the user to input their location manually during account setup or when using location-based features.
Moreover, TikTok may use a combination of these methods to determine a user's location. This location information is used to provide users with location-based content and to enforce regional content restrictions. A premium VPN service can save you the trouble and protect you from all of these issues while trying to change your virtual country.
Why would you change your TikTok location?
There are several reasons why you might want to change your TikTok location:
- Access to regional content. TikTok's algorithm displays content based on the user's location. By changing your location, you can access content from other regions, including new trends and creators.
- Bypass regional restrictions. Some content on TikTok may be restricted in certain regions due to local laws and regulations. You may be able to access content that is not available in your home country bypassing blocks with a VPN.
- Connect with users in other regions and gain more followers. Changing your location can help you connect with users in other regions and expand your network on the platform. By engaging with users from other countries, you can also learn about different cultures and perspectives.
- Privacy concerns. Some users may want to change their location to protect their privacy or avoid location-based advertising. By changing their location, users can prevent advertisers from targeting them based on their location.
- Travel. If you're traveling to a different region, changing your TikTok location can help you discover content and trends that are popular in that area. A VPN is a good solution while traveling and changing your country.
Bottom line
Using a VPN for TikTok can bring many benefits beyond just online safety and privacy. When traveling, a VPN can help you bypass location restrictions and access content that may be unavailable in certain regions. Additionally, by changing your location with a VPN, you can potentially reach a larger audience and gain more followers on the app.
VPNs also encrypt your internet traffic, protecting your personal data from being intercepted by hackers or third parties. With so many benefits, it's worth considering a VPN for anyone looking to enhance their TikTok experience.
We recommend ExpressVPN as it is the best VPN for TikTok: it has many servers to bypass restrictions and change TikTok location in a few seconds. It is a reliable and safe premium VPN to easily access advantages like better reach and wider TikTok audience.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, TikTok content is region-locked based on the user's location. The app's algorithm displays content based on the user's region, and some content may be restricted in certain regions due to local laws and regulations. Luckily, you can change that with a VPN.
Yes, TikTok changes depending on the user's location. The app's algorithm displays content based on the user's region, and users may have access to different features and content depending on their location. Some content may also be restricted in certain regions due to local laws and regulations. VPN can help you bypass this and see more varied content.
To make your TikTok videos reach other countries, you can use popular hashtags that are trending in other regions, collaborate with creators from other countries, and create content that is relevant to a global audience. Besides that, you can use a VPN that will open the door for everyone to see your videos.