TikTok, the popular short-form video app, has officially gone dark in the United States. This follows the enactment of a federal law banning its use. Around 10:30 p.m. Eastern, users were greeted with a stark message: “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now.” The app has also been removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The ban stems from concerns over potential Chinese surveillance. There is bipartisan support for legislation requiring TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app. Otherwise, the app will face a nationwide ban. President Joe Biden signed the bill last April. The incoming Trump administration now has the task of implementing the law.
While the Supreme Court upheld the ban, TikTok hinted that this might be temporary. The app pointed to President-chosen Donald Trump’s willingness to work toward a resolution, possibly granting a 90-day extension. Trump has indicated that his administration would explore a solution that may involve concessions from ByteDance or even a sale.
Meanwhile, the app’s absence has left users scrambling for alternatives, boosting the popularity of other platforms like RedNote and Lemon8.
TikTok’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain as negotiations continue. ByteDance has expressed optimism about resolving the issue but maintains it is not interested in selling the app. Several potential buyers, including tech giants and private investors, have shown interest, though no deals have been finalized.
For now, TikTok users are left in limbo. They are waiting to see if the app will return under Trump’s administration. It could also face a more permanent shutdown. As the situation unfolds, the fate of TikTok’s 170 million U.S. users hangs in the balance.
