TikTok reinstated on US app stores but future remains uncertain
What's the story
Popular short-video platform TikTok has been reinstated on Apple and Google app stores in the US.
The development comes after President Donald Trump decided to postpone a ban that was set to take effect on January 19, 2025.
The 75-day delay was made possible by an executive order signed by Trump last month, allowing the app to continue its operations for the time being.
Ban postponement
Delayed ban allows further review of national security concerns
The decision to delay the ban came amid fears over TikTok's Chinese ownership and possible national security threats.
A law passed by Congress and signed by former President Joe Biden, required TikTok's parent company ByteDance to either sell its US operations or face a nationwide ban.
However, Trump's executive order has given the app a temporary respite as his administration decides the way forward.
User impact
TikTok's temporary return to US app stores
With a user base of 170 million Americans, TikTok remained unavailable in the US for weeks before it was restored on the app stores.
The delay in the ban has allowed Apple and Google to restore TikTok without being penalized for distributing or maintaining the app.
This has sparked conversations about TikTok's future in America and wider ramifications of regulating foreign-owned apps.
In 2024, TikTok was the second most downloaded app in America with over 52 million downloads.
Future prospects
TikTok's future in the US remains uncertain
Despite the temporary relief, TikTok's long-term fate in America remains uncertain as negotiations continue to address national security concerns.
Trump has indicated that he wants a "deal" that would allow ByteDance to continue operating in the US, possibly involving arrangements giving the US government a stake in the company.