Despite this assurance, Apple and Google have not reinstated TikTok in their app stores, citing legal risks tied to the ban’s enforcement.
Between the lines. TikTok is attempting to reassure advertisers, sending a memo stating that most U.S. users will regain access soon and ad campaigns will resume with limited functionality.
The Biden administration deferred immediate enforcement of the ban, leaving its implementation to Trump’s incoming presidency.
Yes, but. Pushback from Republican senators complicates the reprieve. Senators Tom Cotton and Pete Ricketts issued a statement calling the delay “legally baseless” and warning that tech companies aiding TikTok could face substantial fines.
What’s next. Trump has proposed a joint ownership model for TikTok, where U.S. stakeholders could hold a 50% share. ByteDance remains silent on whether it will agree to this arrangement.
Bottom line. TikTok’s future in the U.S. is far from certain. While the app is regaining some functionality, unresolved legal and political challenges loom large for ByteDance and its partners.