Since TikTok was taken down in the U.S. amid ongoing bans, it has not been reinstated on the Google Play Store or Apple’s App Store, preventing new downloads for Android and Apple devices. Fortunately, there’s some good news for Android users.
The official TikTok website now provides a direct download link for the app, bypassing the need for an app store like Google Play. While third-party sites have offered the app’s package for a while, downloading from them often poses malware risks.
If you’re on mobile and using TikTok’s web version, just click the hamburger menu in the top-left corner, then scroll down in the side panel to find the download option.
A Safer Approach
You can currently download either the full version of the app or a Lite version that requires less storage space. One of the biggest benefits of obtaining the TikTok app from the official website is that it provides a secure installation process without the usual risks.
If this is your first time downloading an app through a browser, you may need to grant a one-time permission to allow installations from that source. After that initial permission, the TikTok app should install smoothly on your Android device.
One drawback of not using the Google Play Store is that keeping the app updated becomes more challenging, resulting in potential delays for new features and security updates.
There remains uncertainty regarding when TikTok might reappear in Google or Apple’s app stores. One factor causing hesitation is the substantial fines that could be imposed on app stores and service providers for any violations, potentially reaching $5,000 per individual.
With thousands of downloads, the penalties could amount to millions, leaving TikTok in a cautious position for now. Just a day after a nationwide ban was implemented, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order that paused a comprehensive U.S. ban for 75 days.
What Happens Next?
The future remains uncertain as the deadline approaches. Speculation suggests that a U.S. entity may potentially take over TikTok’s operations, with companies like Oracle, Microsoft, and even Elon Musk being mentioned in discussions.
However, a straightforward transfer of ownership may not be feasible. In fact, the parent company, ByteDance, could decide to halt all efforts in the U.S., exiting the market completely.
“Beijing seems more inclined to adopt a stringent stance, potentially allowing TikTok's U.S. operations to falter rather than agreeing to a sale, especially as negotiations continue with the Trump administration regarding broader trade and tech policy,” according to a report from The Washington Post.
The user concern is palpable. Although Android users have received some relief, iPhone users still face obstacles. Apple restricts app installations to sources from its App Store, leaving those in the U.S. without a viable way to download TikTok unless they reside in the EU.
The desperation even led to instances where used iPhones with TikTok pre-installed were listed for sale online at prices as high as $50,000 each.