TikTok has made a notable return to the app stores of both Apple and Google in the United States, following a temporary blackout that occurred last month as the deadline for a potential ban loomed. This development comes on the heels of President Donald Trump’s decision to postpone the enforcement of the ban until April 5, granting TikTok a 75-day reprieve to comply with legislation that mandates the sale of the app’s U.S. operations.
Background on the Ban
The ban, which garnered bipartisan support in Congress, was enacted under the previous administration, with former President Joe Biden signing it into law. The legislation requires TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest its U.S. operations to a neutral entity to avoid an outright prohibition of the app. Concerns have been raised by the Biden administration regarding the potential for TikTok to be exploited by China for espionage and political manipulation, allegations that both China and TikTok have consistently denied. Beijing has also firmly rejected any calls for the sale of TikTok’s U.S. assets.
According to reports from Bloomberg, the reinstatement of TikTok in the app stores was facilitated by assurances from the Trump administration to Apple and Google, alleviating concerns about potential liability for allowing downloads while the ban remains unenforced.
Trump’s Changing Stance
Interestingly, Trump’s position on TikTok has evolved over time. Initially supportive of a ban during his first term, he later expressed a more favorable view of the platform, citing the significant engagement his videos received during the previous presidential campaign. Upon the app’s reactivation, users were greeted with a message thanking Trump by name.
In a meeting with TikTok CEO Shou Chew at Mar-a-Lago following the election, Trump discussed the possibility of finding a middle ground with the Chinese company. He suggested a unique approach where TikTok could be jointly owned, stating, “What I’m thinking of saying to someone is buy it and give half to the US, half, and we’ll give you a permit.”
Potential Buyers in the Mix
As the conversation around TikTok’s future continues, various high-profile figures have emerged as potential buyers. Trump has mentioned Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison and billionaire Elon Musk, who is currently leading the Department of Government Efficiency, as possible candidates. Other notable names linked to the acquisition include billionaire Frank McCourt and Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary, known for his role on the television show Shark Tank.
In a surprising twist, Jimmy Donaldson, better known as MrBeast, the world’s most popular YouTuber, has also indicated interest in acquiring TikTok, following outreach from multiple investors after he expressed his intentions on social media.
