TikTok has been officially banned in the U.S., effectively blocking access for users within the country. Attempts to open the app now result in a message stating that TikTok is unavailable due to a recently enacted law. The message also notes President Trump's indication of working towards a solution to reinstate the app after his inauguration, encouraging users to stay tuned and offering the option to download their data.
Despite a final appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, the ban was upheld. While acknowledging TikTok's role as a platform for expression and community for over 170 million Americans, the court cited Congress's determination that divestiture was necessary to address national security concerns surrounding data collection practices and the app's relationship with a foreign adversary. The court concluded the ban didn't violate First Amendment rights.
TikTok expresses hope for reinstatement by President Trump after his January 20th inauguration, although no confirmation has been given. President Trump hinted at a possible 90-day delay to the ban in an interview on January 18th, allowing time for a potential sale to a U.S. or allied buyer. This sale hasn't yet materialized, leading to the current ban. Concurrently, other apps linked to TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, including CapCut, Lemon8, and even Marvel Snap, have also become inaccessible.
