Approximately 14 hours after TikTok ceased operations, the popular app has resumed service in the United States. However, users might notice an influx of farewell messages in their feeds for the time being. TikTok is once again accessible after President Trump announced plans to sign an executive order on Monday following his inauguration that would reinstate the app.
On Saturday evening, users received a notice indicating that TikTok was temporarily unavailable due to a law prohibiting its usage within the United States. The message concluded with, “We are grateful that President Trump has expressed willingness to collaborate on a solution that will allow TikTok to return after his inauguration. Please stay tuned!”
Following this announcement, Trump took to his own social platform, Truth Social, to confirm that he would postpone the effective date of the ban. This is more of a temporary reprieve than a permanent fix. The proposed 90-day extension aims to provide additional time to identify an American buyer, with Trump suggesting a split ownership model between ByteDance and the new purchaser.
This marks a notable shift in Trump’s stance, as he had previously supported a ban during his last term. The decision has sparked some debate among his inner circle, with several party members opposing the proposed extension.
Despite TikTok’s return to U.S. soil, its future remains shaky. The app’s availability hinges on finding a buyer within the stipulated deadline. Currently, two potential buyers, including PerplexityAI, have expressed interest, alongside several unnamed companies that are looking into the prospect of purchasing the app.
The overall situation regarding TikTok’s shutdown has been complex, and this latest twist does little to clarify the matter. While officials hinted at a delay, TikTok’s future ultimately hangs in the balance until a resolution is reached.
