The services of popular short-video app TikTok are being restored in America. This decision has been taken after the support of President Donald Trump. After being sworn in on Monday, Trump will restore access to TikTok through executive order. However, they have agreed on the condition that at least 50% of TikTok will be owned by American investors. After this step of Trump, TikTok has started gradually starting its services from Sunday.
TikTok’s sudden closure and then restoration
TikTok had stopped its services in America on Saturday night. Along with this, the app was also removed from the app stores of Apple and Google due to the new law that came into effect on Sunday.
- TikTok notice: The app had issued a notice to its users informing them about the closure of services.
- action due to law: The law passed in April 2024 ordered TikTok’s parent company ByteDance to separate from the app by January 19. Failure to do so was warned of a complete ban on TikTok.
Why was TikTok banned?
US officials had expressed serious concerns about data security on TikTok.
- Risk of data misuse: Fears were raised about possible misuse of Americans’ data through ByteDance.
- legal support: The DC Circuit Court ruled to uphold the ‘Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications’ Act.
Trump’s joint venture plan
President Trump suggested joint venture to save TikTok.
- Announcement at the rally: Trump said at a rally on Sunday,
“We have to save it.” - 17 crore American users: Given TikTok’s large user base, Trump gave priority to restoring it.
- 50% US ownership: Trump wants the United States to have 50% of the shares in the joint venture.
What will happen in the executive order?
- No legal penalties will be imposed on companies that helped prevent TikTok from being shut down.
- The process of resolution will begin to keep TikTok in America for a long time.
TikTok’s thank you message
TikTok expressed gratitude for Trump’s efforts.
- Statement on X (Twitter),
“We thank President Trump for providing needed clarity and protections to TikTok service providers. This will give 17 crore American users and 7 million small businesses an opportunity to grow through TikTok.”
Service Restoration Process
TikTok said it is working with its service providers to restore the app’s services. However, as of Sunday evening, the app was not fully available on the American App Store.
TikTok’s future in America
TikTok has indicated that it will work with President Trump on a long-term solution. The purpose of this solution will be to provide services to American users and businesses and keep American data secure.
