In a move to comply with the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, Apple has stated its reasons for removing apps developed by ByteDance Ltd. and its subsidiaries from its App Stores in the United States. The ban, which took effect on January 19, 2025, affects popular apps including TikTok, CapCut, and Marvel Snap.
Apple’s support page explains that it is obligated to follow laws in jurisdictions where it operates. The app developers’ removal is a result of the law, which restricts foreign-controlled applications from being available for download or updates on US-based devices.
Existing users can continue to use their apps without any issues, but new installations will be blocked. Furthermore, redownloading or restoring these apps on a new device will not be possible. In-app purchases and subscriptions can still be canceled.
Visitors from countries where the apps are still available will face restrictions when trying to download or update them within US borders. Apple has listed several affected apps, including TikTok, CapCut, Marvel Snap, and others linked to ByteDance.
Google is also following a similar path, refusing to comment on its response as of now. The situation highlights the ongoing implications of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which has sparked concerns about digital freedoms and user rights.
Source: https://www.theverge.com/2025/1/19/24347077/tiktok-ban-apple-app-store-bytedance