TikTok Goes Dark Ahead of US Ban

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TikTok Shuts Down in the US: What Happens Next?

TikTok has gone offline in the US, just hours before a nationwide ban was set to take effect.

The app, used by over 170 million Americans, displayed a message to users: “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now.”

The move comes after the Supreme Court upheld a bipartisan law signed last year by President Joe Biden. The legislation mandates TikTok to sell its U.S. operations to a non-Chinese owner or face an outright ban due to concerns about national security risks associated with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.

What’s Next for TikTok?

While TikTok users and influencers are grappling with the shutdown, there is still a glimmer of hope. President-elect Donald Trump hinted at a potential 90-day extension to delay the ban after his inauguration. Trump, who has shown a softening stance on TikTok, said he is open to exploring solutions to reinstate the platform.

“A 90-day extension is certainly an option we’re looking at,” Trump said in an interview. “This is a big situation, and we need to handle it carefully.”

Why Did TikTok Shut Down?

TikTok preemptively went offline after receiving warnings from key service providers like Apple and Google, who faced potential fines for continuing to host the app post-ban. These providers opted to restrict access to TikTok, prompting the company to take the app offline voluntarily to avoid legal complications.

Reactions to the Shutdown

The White House criticized TikTok’s decision, labeling it a “stunt,” while Biden administration officials stated enforcement of the ban would fall to the next president. TikTok employees were told the company is working tirelessly to resolve the situation.

Many influencers and small business owners reliant on TikTok have expressed dismay, with some already exploring alternative platforms. Others remain hopeful that a resolution could see TikTok return to the U.S. in the near future.

What Could Happen Next?

TikTok’s fate lies in the hands of the incoming administration and ongoing negotiations for a sale. ByteDance has so far resisted selling its U.S. operations but may face increased pressure to comply if Trump proceeds with enforcing the ban.

For now, American users are left in limbo, waiting for clarity on whether TikTok can make a comeback. Trump’s upcoming decisions will likely determine whether TikTok’s shutdown is temporary or the end of the road for the app in the U.S.

 

Mia Brooks

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