What to know about TikTok’s ban in the US as its deadline approaches

Published 7:35 PM ET, Saturday January 18, 2025

As of January 18, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a federal law requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to divest its U.S. operations by January 19, 2025, or face a ban.

This decision stems from national security concerns regarding data collection and the potential for Chinese government access.

Immediate Implications:

• App Accessibility: Starting January 19, new downloads of TikTok will be prohibited in the U.S., and existing users will be unable to receive updates. While the app may remain functional for a time, lack of updates could lead to performance issues and security vulnerabilities.
  Time
• Service Providers: Companies like Apple and Google are required to remove TikTok from their app stores to comply with the ban. Failure to do so may result in substantial fines.
  POLITICO
• User Impact: Approximately 170 million American users will be affected. Content creators and businesses that rely on TikTok for revenue and engagement are expressing concerns over financial and community impacts.
  The Sun

Potential Developments:

• Presidential Intervention: President-elect Donald Trump, who takes office on January 20, has indicated a willingness to address the situation. He is considering a 90-day extension to allow ByteDance more time to sell TikTok’s U.S. operations, potentially averting the ban.
  Associated Press
• Alternative Platforms: In anticipation of the ban, users and creators are exploring other platforms such as Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts to continue their activities.
  Business Insider

The future of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain. The impending ban will disrupt access and operations unless a resolution, such as a sale or executive intervention, occurs promptly. Users and creators should prepare for potential changes and consider alternative platforms to maintain their online presence.