TikTok has begun restoring services in the United States following President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement that he would sign an executive order to keep the popular app operational in the country. During a rally on Sunday,
Trump stated, “Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it,” signaling his intention to ensure at least 50% American ownership of the app, which has 170 million U.S. users.
TikTok confirmed the restoration of its services, crediting Trump’s efforts in helping the app return to the U.S. The company highlighted the importance of the app for over 7 million small businesses in the U.S. and thanked Trump for providing the “clarity and assurance” needed to resume operations. However, while basic functions were restored on Sunday, TikTok is still unavailable for download on U.S. app stores.
The executive order also requires that TikTok’s ownership be partially transferred to U.S. entities to address concerns about its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. This decision aims to ease security worries and ensure American oversight of the platform’s operations.
Despite the restoration of services, the app is not yet fully accessible in all ways. Some users have reported limited access to the website and app functions, but the full restoration process is ongoing. TikTok’s return comes amid strained U.S.-China relations, with the Chinese Embassy criticizing the U.S. government’s actions and pledging to protect TikTok’s rights.
“TikTok is an essential tool for millions of small businesses and creators in the U.S., and we are grateful to President Trump for his intervention in ensuring that the platform remains operational,” a TikTok spokesperson said.
The return of TikTok underlines its significance in U.S. digital culture and its widespread influence, especially among young users. It remains to be seen how the ongoing U.S.-China tensions will affect TikTok’s future in the U.S.
Join the Community and Be a Part of the Conversation
You must be logged in or registered to post a comment.