TikTok Back Online in the US After Donald Trump’s Intervention, But Missing on App Stores: Key Points
TikTok has resumed operations for its 170 million US users after an intervention by President-elect Donald Trump. However, the app remains unavailable on Apple’s App Store and Google Play Store. Here are the key developments:
Key Highlights:
- Service Restoration: TikTok began restoring services in the US on January 19, 2025, after Trump announced plans to delay enforcement of a federal law banning the app.
- Executive Order Pending: Trump promised to issue an executive order on January 20, 2025, to extend the compliance period, allowing TikTok more time to find a US-based buyer.
- Protection for Supporters: The order will ensure no liability for companies that continued to provide TikTok access during the interim period.
- Potential Joint Venture: Trump suggested a joint venture where a US-based company would hold a 50% stake in TikTok, ensuring national security while maintaining the app’s presence in the country.
Background:
- TikTok faced a federal mandate requiring ByteDance to sell the app to a US company or face a ban by January 19, 2025.
- Previous legal challenges by TikTok were rejected, including a Supreme Court ruling, pushing the app closer to a shutdown.
Trump’s Statement:
Trump used his social media platform to urge companies to support TikTok and announced plans for a joint venture. He emphasized TikTok’s role in connecting with American youth, a factor influencing his decision to grant the 90-day extension.
TikTok’s Response:
TikTok expressed gratitude for Trump’s assurance, stating it was in the process of restoring services and thanked the administration for providing clarity to its service providers.
Current Challenges:
- Despite the restoration of services, TikTok remains missing from the App Store and Play Store, limiting new user downloads.
- ByteDance has shown reluctance to sell or merge the app with US-based companies, creating uncertainty about its long-term presence in the US market.
Future Developments:
Perplexity AI has reportedly submitted a proposal to ByteDance for a joint venture to maintain TikTok’s US operations, but the outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain.
TikTok’s future in the US hinges on the success of these discussions and the upcoming executive order from Trump, which could provide a temporary reprieve for the app’s operations.
