TikTok Returns to U.S. App Stores as Trump Pauses Ban

WASHINGTON : TikTok is once again available for download on Apple and Google app stores in the United States after President Donald Trump postponed enforcement of a ban on the Chinese-owned social media platform. The decision, which extends TikTok’s operations for at least another 75 days, comes amid ongoing concerns over national security and data privacy.

The app, owned by Beijing-based ByteDance, had briefly gone dark last month before a law took effect on January 19 requiring ByteDance to either sell its U.S. assets or face a nationwide ban. However, Trump issued an executive order delaying the implementation of the law, ensuring that Google and Apple would not face penalties for hosting or distributing TikTok. Despite this, both tech giants had kept the app off their U.S. stores until now, reportedly awaiting legal assurances from the administration.

With over 52 million downloads in 2024 alone, TikTok remains one of the most widely used social media platforms in the country. Data from Sensor Tower shows that 52% of its downloads last year came from Apple’s App Store, while 48% were from Google Play.

The law mandating TikTok’s sale was originally signed by former President Joe Biden in April 2024, citing fears that the Chinese government could exploit the app for surveillance or data gathering on American users. The legislation also grants the Trump administration broad authority to regulate or prohibit other Chinese-owned digital platforms operating in the U.S.

For now, Trump has hinted that the 75-day extension could be prolonged if necessary, though he does not anticipate the need for further delays. ByteDance has yet to issue a formal response regarding the latest developments.

Source: Reuters