TikTok has gone offline in the United States and is no longer available for download following the introduction of a ban. The app displayed a message stating: “A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the US.” As a result, users can no longer access the platform. TikTok has said it is discussing solutions with President Trump, who has indicated he may reinstate the app after taking office. Other apps from ByteDance, such as CapCut and Lemon8, are also unavailable in app stores.
Trump will take office on Monday. He has suggested signing an executive order that could delay the ban for 90 days, citing national security concerns. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew will attend the US presidential inauguration and a rally with Trump, according to reports. TikTok had previously warned it would stop services unless reassurances were provided regarding the future of the ban.
The platform must sever its ties with ByteDance or shut down its US operations by Sunday 4 pm AEDT. Under a law passed last year, upheld by the US Supreme Court, TikTok faces pressure to resolve national security concerns. The White House confirmed the incoming administration would handle the matter, with no actions required before Trump’s inauguration.
The Chinese embassy in Washington condemned the US for using state power against TikTok. A spokesperson stated that China would protect its interests.
TikTok future amid growing concerns over the US ban
Investors are exploring ways to secure TikTok’s future. Perplexity AI, an AI startup, has proposed merging with TikTok’s US operations. The plan doesn’t involve buying TikTok’s algorithm but seeks to keep the platform running in the US.
Other investor groups, including one led by Shark Tank star Kevin O’Leary, have offered ByteDance $20 billion for the platform. As uncertainty rises, many users are exploring other platforms, such as RedNote. One user commented, “This is my new home now,” with the hashtags “#tiktokrefugee” and “#sad.”
After the US shutdown, users shared their thoughts on X (formerly Twitter). One user wrote, “I didn’t expect TikTok to be cut off. I miss my friends there. Hopefully, it’ll come back soon,” said @RavenclawJedi.
