Douyin's 2026 Algorithm Shift International Brands Should Know

Douyin's algorithm has fundamentally shifted in 2026 — moving from tag-based matching to AI behavioral prediction, extending content evaluation from 24 hours to 7 days, and reordering engagement weights so saves now outrank likes entirely. This piece breaks down what changed, why it changed, and what international brands need to adjust in their Chinese social media and short-video strategy to stay aligned with how the platform now actually distributes content.