The first TikTok ad aired on TV tonight during the Super Bowl.

TikTok tonight ran an ad on TV for the first time in the United States during the biggest televised event in the country.<br><br>The Washington Post learned about the ad ahead of time, and we asked TikTok for more information. Spokespeople for the company declined multiple interview requests and have not yet responded to our specific questions. <br><br>TikTok confirmed to The Post and users tonight that it did run an ad.<br><br>Earlier, we asked what the ad was about, what it displayed, and how it would appear tonight during the broadcast. We also asked whether it would include any hashtags or QR codes.<br><br>We also asked about the possible risks of showing the app to a new, potentially enormous audience. There have been many questions and criticisms about the influence it has on children and whether it can be trusted to operate in the United States.<br><br>Among other concerns, US officials have worried that ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, may be sharing information about Americans with Beijing. <br><br>We also asked whether TikTok had received “clearance” to show the ads in the US.<br><br>TikTok tonight said that the commercial is about the “power of the community.”<br><br>“Tonight, we’re showcasing the best of TikTok and celebrating TikTok creators and our community through our very first Big Game commercial,” Ben Chamberlin, head of North America ad products, said in a statement to The Post. “We’re sharing what makes TikTok unique and bringing to life the power of the community to an even broader audience."<br><br>The commercial displayed users doing various things. It showed dogs and cats but tonight TikTok told The Post it is about the users.<br><br>It showed a dog wearing a birthday party hat. And then there’s a baby biting into a cookie, then a baby bear. It also showed someone playing a piano in a field. It is very much a montage.<br><br>“On TikTok, you can discover endless possibilities and be a part of the world’s most creative and diverse community,” reads the caption.<br><br>The commercial didn’t include a hashtag or QR code, but it did include a logo of TikTok at the end.<br><br>As for what dangers may come of letting more people know about the app, Chamberlin defended its merits as a positive online space.<br><br>TikTok has faced many questions about possible influence it has on children and teenagers.<br><br>“TikTok is a platform that values authenticity, inclusivity, and creativity, and we look forward to getting to know new viewers tonight,” says Chamberlin. <br><br>TikTok has faced investigations around whether it is appropriate for young users.<br><br>“With its diverse and creative user base, TikTok plays a positive role in shaping and influencing culture and society, and we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the platform for themselves,” adds Chamberlin. “By sharing a little bit about TikTok and what makes us unique during this broadcast, we hope to inspire new and existing users alike to show off their authentic selves and express their creativity.”<br><br>Earlier, we asked whether TikTok had received any “clearance” to show the ad in the US.<br><br>I was tonight told TikTok doesn’t need permission to advertise. <br><br>“TikTok is a publicly available social media platform and app, and like any other business or service, we have the right to advertise on various platforms and channels, including broadcast television,” says Chamberlin. “Our Big Game commercial is intended to be enjoyed by a broad audience, and like our platform, it is not intended for children under the age of 13.”<br><br>Looks like we’ll see a lot more of this app now.