TikTok swiftly returned to U.S. users on Sunday after a brief shutdown lasting about 12 hours, following a law banning the app due to national security concerns over its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.
The shutdown left users unable to access the app, but TikTok attributed its revival to efforts by President-elect Donald Trump, who promised to issue an executive order to delay the ban's enforcement. The app’s return was welcomed by its 170 million American users, many of whom depend on it for entertainment and income.
Trump, who had previously supported a TikTok ban, expressed a desire to protect the app, suggesting a 50-50 joint venture between ByteDance and an American company to keep TikTok operational. His statement reassured TikTok’s service providers, such as Oracle, Apple, and Google, to continue supporting the app, allowing it to return despite the impending law. TikTok thanked Trump for his efforts, signaling a potential long-term solution to keep the platform active in the U.S.
While TikTok’s return is a temporary relief, the long-term future of the app remains uncertain. The ban was passed with bipartisan support, and Trump’s proposed 90-day extension to allow for negotiations faces opposition, including from members of his own party. Critics argue TikTok should sever all ties with China to address security concerns before returning to U.S. app stores.
The app’s future depends on potential solutions like a sale to an American company or the passing of a new law to reverse the ban. While some companies, including a group led by billionaire Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary, have shown interest in buying TikTok, ByteDance has repeatedly stated it does not plan to sell. Until a permanent resolution is reached, TikTok’s place in the U.S. remains uncertain.
Source: CNN
Filled Under :
*We reserve the right to delete comments that contain inappropriate content.