Banned Apps: What’s Happening to TikTok and Others?

ByteDance-owned platforms TikTok, Lemon8, CapCut, Marvel Snap, and several others have been affected by a new US ban. The ban comes after months of anticipation and follows President-elect Trump’s promise to “save” TikTok.

Under the ban, internet hosting services and app stores are not allowed to distribute ByteDance’s platforms. Although already downloaded apps will remain on devices, they are likely unusable due to software updates being unavailable. The banned apps are also inaccessible via website, and in-app purchases and new subscriptions are no longer available.

Affected apps include:

– Lemon8: A social media platform released in the US in 2023
– CapCut – Video Editor: A free video editing software previously available in the US for mobile and desktop download
– Marvel Snap: A digital collectible card game featuring characters from the Marvel Universe

International tourists visiting the US will not be able to access these banned apps. However, users will regain access once they leave the country.

The ban comes after concerns about ByteDance’s ties to China and potential national security risks. President-elect Trump has promised to work with TikTok on a solution to reinstate the app once he takes office.

Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/tech/news/2025/01/19/tiktok-ban-lemon8-capcut-marvel-snap/77825175007