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TikTok faces a critical turning point as its operations in the United States are set to shut down on Sunday following a Supreme Court decision that upheld a ban on the Chinese-owned app. The ban, part of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, aims to address national security concerns over TikTok’s ownership by Beijing-based ByteDance.
However, President-elect Donald Trump has signaled a possible delay of the ban, citing a need to evaluate the situation further. “The 90-day extension is something that will most likely be done, because it’s appropriate,” Trump told NBC News on Saturday. “If I decide to do that, I’ll probably announce it on Monday,” he added, leaving TikTok’s fate hanging in the balance.
The Supreme Court’s unanimous 9-0 decision reinforced bipartisan concerns about TikTok’s data access and potential misuse by the Chinese government. Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle argue that ByteDance’s ownership poses a risk to national security, particularly due to the app’s vast data collection capabilities. However, critics point out that no concrete evidence has been presented of misuse by the Chinese government.
TikTok announced that the app will “go dark” starting Sunday unless the Biden administration provides clearer assurances that the law will not be enforced immediately. Companies like Google and Apple, which provide app store services, and server operators are reportedly hesitant to continue supporting TikTok due to fears of legal liability.
The uncertainty has sent shockwaves through TikTok’s massive U.S. user base of 170 million, particularly among influencers and small business owners who rely on the platform for their livelihoods. Alternative apps, including ByteDance-owned Lemon8, have seen a surge in downloads as users prepare for a possible blackout.
As Trump prepares to take office on Monday, his position on TikTok remains complicated. Once a vocal critic of the app, Trump now appears to embrace its cultural significance and popularity, even boasting about his own reach on the platform. The incoming administration could pause the ban for 90 days to explore a long-term solution, such as facilitating a U.S. purchase of TikTok’s operations.
ByteDance has thus far resisted selling the platform, arguing that TikTok plays a valuable role in American cultural and economic life. U.S. law requires significant progress on a sale for the ban to be delayed, leaving the company little room to maneuver.
The debate over TikTok reflects broader concerns about data security and the influence of foreign-owned platforms. While the app has been praised for fostering open political discourse, critics argue that its ties to the Chinese government present unacceptable risks.
Attorney General Merrick Garland commended the Supreme Court’s ruling, stating that “the decision enables the Justice Department to prevent the Chinese government from weaponizing TikTok to undermine America’s national security.”
Still, some analysts question whether the ban prioritizes national security or reflects broader geopolitical tensions with China. ByteDance continues to deny allegations of improper data handling.
The immediate future of TikTok in the U.S. depends on whether Trump follows through with a delay. Without intervention, service providers are expected to restrict access to the app starting Sunday at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time.
The decision carries significant implications for the tech industry, free speech, and the digital economy. As tensions mount, TikTok’s users and partners are bracing for a blackout that may be as short as a single day—or a precursor to a permanent ban.
TikTok Back Online After Temporary Shutdown (Updated on January 20, 2025)
TikTok restored access to its platform in the U.S. on Sunday afternoon after a brief 14-hour suspension. The app credited President-elect Donald Trump for facilitating its return, following his announcement of an executive order to delay the enforcement of a controversial law that would have banned TikTok unless it separated from its China-based parent, ByteDance.
Trump shared the news on Truth Social, promising to issue the executive order Monday. “I will extend the period of time before the law’s prohibitions take effect, so that we can make a deal to protect our national security,” he stated.
TikTok thanked Trump for providing reassurance to its tech partners—companies like Apple, Google, and Oracle—who faced potential fines for supporting the app under the law. “We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance,” TikTok said in a statement.
While the app is operational for now, its long-term future in the U.S. remains uncertain. The law, passed with bipartisan support under President Joe Biden in April 2024, mandates that ByteDance sell TikTok to a buyer from the U.S. or a friendly nation, citing concerns over potential national security risks. ByteDance has so far resisted calls for divestment.
Trump has proposed a joint ownership model in which an American company would purchase half of TikTok and co-manage it with ByteDance. However, it is unclear if this compromise would satisfy lawmakers who initially pushed for the ban, including Republicans in Trump’s party who remain wary of foreign influence.
TikTok’s temporary shutdown on Saturday night was a strategic move to pressure Trump into acting quickly. By suspending operations, the company highlighted the potential impact of the ban on millions of American users and its technology partners.
The app’s shutdown message appealed directly to Trump, stating, “We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office.”
TikTok CEO Shou Chew also praised Trump’s support, noting the president-elect’s personal engagement with the platform during his campaign, which he credits for helping him connect with young voters.
For now, users and creators are celebrating its return, while policymakers prepare for further discussions on how to address national security concerns without stifling innovation or creativity.
