TikTok Restored in the US – TikTok, which was temporarily shut down in the US, resumed operations on Sunday. However, many users are still experiencing issues with the app. The Supreme Court recently upheld the government’s decision to ban TikTok, citing national security concerns.
If TikTok wishes to continue operating in the US, it will need to sell its American business. Failure to do so could result in a complete ban.
TikTok Resumes – Trump’s Statement
TikTok announced on Sunday that it had begun gradually restoring services. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump asserted that TikTok would continue to function under his administration.
On Sunday afternoon, TikTok started reinstating access for US users. “We are working closely with our service providers to restore TikTok’s functionality,” the company stated.
At the same time, Elon Musk voiced his opposition to the TikTok ban via social media, stating that it violates freedom of speech. However, he also noted that while TikTok should be allowed in the US, it is unfair that the platform remains banned in China.
Is TikTok Fully Operational?
TikTok’s website is now accessible on desktop browsers across the US. Users can log in, view their profiles, send messages, and browse content. It is currently functioning on major browsers like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and Apple Safari.
However, the app remains unavailable for download in US app stores. Some users have managed to access TikTok through a web browser, but several features remain restricted within the mobile application.
The US May Acquire a Stake in TikTok – Trump’s Proposal
TikTok met its Sunday deadline for ceasing operations, but Trump suggested that he could extend this deadline by issuing an executive order. This would allow TikTok additional time to negotiate a resolution and address national security concerns.
Last year, the US Congress passed legislation requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to sell the app’s US operations or risk being banned. Trump also stated that he had previously discussed TikTok’s future with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
What Should TikTok Users Do Now?
On Sunday morning, users who attempted to open the app received an error message instructing them to exit or notifying them about the ban.
By the afternoon, however, some users reported being able to access TikTok’s website via a browser. Gradually, some basic app functions were being restored, though the app remains unavailable for download in the US.
Conclusion
The debate over TikTok’s future in the US remains highly political and legally complex. While Trump has expressed support for keeping TikTok operational, legal hurdles make this difficult. For now, TikTok’s services are being restored gradually, but full functionality for all users may take time.
FAQs
1. Is TikTok fully functional in the US?
TikTok has started restoring services, but many users still have limited access.
2. Why was TikTok banned in the US?
The US government cited national security concerns, fearing that ByteDance could share user data with China.
3. Will TikTok need to sell its US business to continue operating?
Under US law, TikTok must sell its American operations to a US-based company or face a ban.
4. Is TikTok available for download in app stores?
Currently, TikTok is not available for download in US app stores, though users can access it via web browsers.
5. Can Trump lift the TikTok ban?
Although Trump supports TikTok’s continuation, reversing a law passed by Congress would require more than an executive order.