The countdown to January 19 keeps millions of TikTok app users in the US on their toes due to the potential ban on this hugely popular social media app. This is a precarious situation that ByteDance, TikTok’s parent organization faces. Under the law upheld by the Supreme Court, it mandates TikTok to be divested from foreign ownership by January 19 or the application will be removed from U.S. app stores.
What Would Happen If TikTok App Ban is Implemented Across US on January 19?
A ban would prevent Apple, Google, and others from offering TikTok in their markets. Existing users could continue to open the app, but being unable to update its software would leave it vulnerable to well-known cybersecurity problems. According to Victoria Schwartz, a law professor at Pepperdine University, that would essentially make TikTok an “orphan program,” given that new operating systems are making it less compatible.
According to reports, ByteDance intends to let its U.S. users download their data in case the ban actually happens. Yet the performance would decline with time due to a lack of updates, and millions of content creators and small business owners would be left in a tight spot.
Trump’s Role in TikTok’s Future
resident-elect Donald Trump, assuming office on January 20, wants to “save TikTok.” He can stall the enforcement of the ban via an executive order, but he might face the court. And he can, as well certify a “qualified divestiture,” which may provide the app to stay in use in the US.
Other buyers floated as a potential candidate for acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations include Elon Musk. The talks between Chinese officials and the potential investors are still ongoing as ByteDance refuses to sell the platform.
The looming ban has attracted global attention as lawmakers and business leaders debate solutions to safeguard the app’s future in the U.S.
Also, see: Australia passes social media ban for children under 16