TikTok has been officially banned in the United States. As of today, the app is no longer available for download on the Android or iOS app stores, and existing users can’t access the platform. The only remaining functionality is the option to log in and download your data.
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The Situation
Attempts to use TikTok now bring up a notification:
“You can’t use TikTok for now.”
Users are given two choices: close the app or log in to retrieve their data. However, there’s hope for a resolution. The message hints at a possible comeback:
“We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Stay tuned!”
This suggests that TikTok’s owner, ByteDance, is banking on support from President Trump, who is set to take office tomorrow (January 20).
What’s Next for TikTok?
In an interview with NBC News, Trump stated he would “most likely” grant TikTok a 90-day reprieve, allowing time to negotiate a solution. Until then, short-form video fans in the US will have to endure a TikTok-less digital landscape.
The ban has been swift and thorough, with Apple even publishing a support document addressing the issue. The document clarifies:
“TikTok and ByteDance Ltd. apps are no longer available in the United States, and visitors to the United States might have limited access to features. Apple is obligated to follow the laws in the jurisdictions where it operates.”
The Long-Term Outlook
While TikTok’s fate remains uncertain, there’s speculation about possible solutions. Perplexity AI has reportedly submitted a bid to take over TikTok’s US operations, which could provide a way for the app to resume services.
For now, US users will have to wait and see whether the platform’s viral short-form videos will make a comeback.
