TikTok Stops Working for US Users Ahead of Federal Ban

TikTok has ceased operations in the United States ahead of a federal ban set to take effect on Sunday. Users attempting to access the app on Saturday night were met with a message: “A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the US. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now.”

The message also included a note of optimism, citing President-elect Donald Trump’s pledge to work on a solution to reinstate the app after taking office. "We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office," the message read.

The shutdown follows a Supreme Court ruling on Friday that upheld the law banning TikTok in the name of national security unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, reaches a deal to sell the app’s US operations to a non-Chinese entity.

A Platform Under Fire
TikTok has grown into a cultural phenomenon, connecting users of all ages with its short-form videos. From viral dance trends to cooking tips, the app has transformed ordinary users into global stars. President-elect Trump himself has praised TikTok for helping him connect with younger voters, which he credits as a factor in his November election victory.

Despite the ban, Trump hinted at a potential 90-day reprieve during an interview with NBC News, stating, “The 90-day extension is something that will most likely be done, because it’s appropriate.” He added that a formal announcement might follow his inauguration on Monday.

Legal and Corporate Fallout
The law mandates Apple and Google remove TikTok from their app stores, barring new downloads. Oracle, TikTok’s US server host, is also legally required to enforce the ban. Non-compliance could result in penalties of up to $5,000 per user who retains access.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew issued a public appeal to Trump, expressing gratitude for his willingness to explore solutions. Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, signaling ongoing negotiations.

However, ByteDance has resisted selling its US operations outright, complicating efforts to resolve the standoff. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre dismissed TikTok’s latest statements as a “stunt,” leaving the matter for the incoming administration to address.

Offers and Proposals
Last-minute proposals have surfaced in an attempt to save TikTok’s US operations. A notable offer came from Perplexity AI, a start-up backed by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. The proposed merger with TikTok’s US subsidiary could create a new joint venture while preserving ByteDance’s interests. The deal is estimated to be worth at least $50 billion, according to sources.

Other offers include a bid from Frank McCourt, former owner of the Los Angeles Dodgers, and Canadian investor Kevin O’Leary, who disclosed a $20 billion offer for TikTok’s US operations. Legal experts warn, however, that any executive order by Trump to pause the ban may conflict with the existing law, which could lead to further court challenges.

Shifting Social Media Landscape
As TikTok halts operations, rivals Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts stand to benefit. Meanwhile, Chinese app Xiaohongshu, known as “Little Red Book,” has surged in popularity among US users seeking alternatives, becoming the most downloaded app on the US Apple Store this week.

The TikTok ban marks a pivotal moment in the intersection of technology, national security, and geopolitics. While its future in the US remains uncertain, the app’s absence is poised to reshape the social media landscape in significant ways.