TikTok’s Future in the US: App Ban Looms Amid Legal Battle
TikTok’s Future in the US: App Ban Looms Amid Legal Battle
US-based TikTok users might have only a few more weeks to scroll through their For You Pages. Starting January 19, 2025, the app could face a nationwide ban unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, agrees to sell it off.
A US appeals court upheld a law on Friday requiring TikTok’s separation from ByteDance or risk removal from app stores. App stores that continue hosting TikTok past the deadline could face hefty fines. While users with the app already downloaded might still access it, they would likely lose access to updates, eventually rendering the app buggy and less functional.
Is the Case Over?
TikTok plans to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court. “The Supreme Court has a strong history of protecting Americans’ right to free speech, and we expect they will uphold this important constitutional issue,” TikTok spokesperson Michael Hughes said Friday.
Despite the looming deadline, TikTok has remained firm on not separating from ByteDance. Hughes emphasized the ban’s potential impact on millions of users, stating, “The TikTok ban, unless stopped, will silence the voices of over 170 million Americans.”
Beyond a Supreme Court appeal, the ban could still be delayed or avoided. For example, President Joe Biden could issue a 90-day extension, although he has not signaled plans to do so. There’s also speculation about potential support from President-elect Donald Trump after he takes office.
What Are Users Saying?
The ruling has reignited concerns among TikTok’s vast US user base, including creators, small businesses, and everyday users who rely on the platform for connection, entertainment, and income.
Lifestyle creator Carrie Berk shared her worries about the platform’s future. “TikTok is a huge part of my income and livelihood. But since 2020, there’s been so much talk of a ban without anything happening, so I’m skeptical. All we can do is cross our fingers.”
Others expressed doubt about the ban’s enforcement. “Millions of small US businesses rely on TikTok,” content strategist Keenya Kelly said. “I think TikTok will be forced to make changes, but I don’t see it being completely banned.”
While uncertainty looms, creators and users remain hopeful that TikTok’s community and economic impact will keep the platform alive in the US.
