TikTok is preparing to go dark in the United States if a looming ban takes effect on Sunday, according to multiple reports. The popular video-sharing app, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, plans to shut down operations entirely rather than continuing service for existing users.
Media outlets such as The Information and Reuters report that while users could still legally access TikTok after the ban, the app would gradually become unusable. App stores and internet hosting services would be prohibited from providing updates, rendering the platform inactive over time.
In the event of the shutdown, users will likely see a message directing them to a statement about the ban. They will also be provided with options to download their personal data, according to the reports. TikTok has yet to respond to a request for comment on the matter.
Background on the TikTok Ban
The potential TikTok ban follows the passage of the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act” in April. Signed by outgoing President Joe Biden, the law gave ByteDance 270 days to sell TikTok or face a nationwide ban. The move stemmed from bipartisan concerns over the app’s potential misuse in gathering personal data and influencing public opinion in the U.S.
Possible Delay by President-Elect Trump
As the ban nears, President-elect Donald Trump is reportedly considering delaying its implementation. The Washington Post revealed that Trump is contemplating an executive order to suspend the ban for 60 to 90 days. This would provide more time to negotiate a sale or alternative solution for TikTok’s U.S. operations.
Trump, who previously sought to ban TikTok during his first term, pledged to “save” the app during his re-election campaign.
Supreme Court Considers Ban’s Constitutionality
Meanwhile, the U.S. Supreme Court is reviewing the constitutionality of the TikTok ban. Last week, a majority of justices expressed doubt about TikTok’s claim that the ban violates free speech rights. The outcome of this case could influence whether the ban is enforced.
As the deadline approaches, TikTok’s fate in the U.S. remains uncertain, with both legal and political battles continuing to unfold.
