WASHINGTON – TikTok has ceased functioning for American users and has been removed from Apple and Google app stores in the United States ahead of the mandated deadline.
The platform, with nearly 1 billion global users, was shut down following U.S. legislation in April requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the app to a non-Chinese entity or face removal.
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Citing security concerns, the law targets TikTok, used by over 170 million Americans, demanding it cut ties with ByteDance. Amid the ban, President-elect Donald Trump hinted at a potential three-month extension to allow TikTok to operate while his administration explores a solution.
TikTok has pledged to collaborate with Trump’s administration to address the ban, as other apps like CapCut and Lemon8 have also been removed from U.S. app stores.
The TikTok controversy highlights escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing, centering on digital sovereignty and national security concerns.
