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Copying snapchat to make stories. TikTok to make Reels. And fb originally bought Instagram. Can the big players just copy or buy every competitor at some point and remain on top?

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The big differentiator between these isn't per se the way that content is shared/created, but the network itself. So, as long as the network is intact, then in my opinion yes the big players can just copy/buy every competitor and remain on top.

did they hurt their competitors by copycatting stuff? It seems like tiktok has a different user base that does not overlap with the way ppl use instagram.

> did they hurt their competitors by copycatting stuff?

They kneecapped Snapchat pretty effectively when they stole the story feature, first in Instagram and then in Facebook proper.

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