After a brief hiatus, TikTok has resumed its services for Android users in the United States as of January 19. This restoration follows a nationwide ban that temporarily removed the app from the Google Play Store, a decision stemming from national security concerns regarding its parent company, ByteDance. The Supreme Court’s upholding of a law requiring ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations led to the app’s momentary shutdown.
In a statement shared on social media, TikTok expressed gratitude towards President Trump for clarifying the situation, which allowed service providers to continue offering the app to over 170 million American users. The company emphasized the importance of this decision for the many small businesses that rely on its platform to thrive, framing it as a victory for free speech and against arbitrary censorship.
TikTok once again available for download on Android devices
With the app now accessible again, TikTok has made it possible for Android users to download the app directly from its website. This comes in the form of Android Package Kits (APKs), which contain all necessary data for the app’s functionality. As noted by TechTarget, APK files are essential for all Android applications, whether downloaded from the Google Play Store or installed manually.
Why is TikTok not available on the App Store? Trump teases at potential purchase
Despite the app’s return for Android users, it remains absent from the App Store. A search for TikTok on Apple’s platform yields a notice indicating that the app is not available in the user’s region. This situation arises from a law mandating that ByteDance must sell its U.S. assets to continue operating in the country. Although the law only necessitated the removal of TikTok from app stores if the sale deadline was not met, ByteDance opted for a complete shutdown.
In a twist, Trump has hinted at the possibility of purchasing TikTok as part of a new sovereign wealth fund, which he signed into existence on February 3. This fund is anticipated to be operational within the next year, and while specifics remain vague, Trump mentioned that TikTok could be a potential acquisition.
What is TikTok Lite?
For users seeking a lighter version of the app, TikTok Lite offers a streamlined experience. While it allows users to create, watch, and interact with content, certain features such as LIVE streaming and TikTok Shop are not included.
How to download TikTok on Android
To ensure safety from malicious software, TikTok advises users to download the app exclusively from its official website. Here’s how to do it:
- Visit tiktok.com/download.
- Select download and follow the installation instructions.
For those using a web browser, the process is similar:
- Navigate to tiktok.com/download.
- Scan the QR code and follow the installation steps.
This method applies equally for downloading TikTok Lite, ensuring users can enjoy the platform safely and efficiently.
