During a rally on Sunday before his inauguration, Trump expressed his determination to save TikTok, a short-video sharing app used by 170 million Americans. The U.S. is looking to establish a joint venture to revive the app with a strong user base. TikTok, on the other hand, informed its users via a message that it was back in the U.S. owing to Trump's efforts. Users in the U.S. reported being able to access the Chinese-owned service's website, and the TikTok app started coming back online for some users with limited services.
In a statement, TikTok thanked Trump for providing clarity and assurance to service providers that there would be no penalties for offering TikTok to millions of Americans and facilitating the growth of small businesses. However, not all members of the Republican Party, like senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts, supported the efforts to save TikTok by circumventing the law. Beyond this, TikTok mentioned that they are in the process of restoring service to U.S. users.
A spokesperson from China emphasized that they would take necessary measures to protect their legitimate rights and interests regarding TikTok. Trump mentioned aiming for the U.S. to hold a 50% ownership position in a joint venture, emphasizing the importance of the executive order to prevent liability for companies aiding in keeping TikTok operational. Amid discussions of TikTok's fate, the platform disappeared from Apple and Google app stores but began restoring services following Trump's statements.
The situation signifies a turnaround from Trump's previous stance in office. However, TikTok faces challenges to comply with divestiture requirements to operate in the U.S. moving forward. Trump's intentions to save TikTok have garnered mixed responses, and uncertainty looms regarding the platform's future availability. Despite the ongoing developments, the app remains inaccessible for download on U.S. app stores.
