TikTok’s US service has returned, but its re-appearance on the Apple App Store remains uncertain due to ongoing legal scrutiny and concerns over compliance with US laws.
President Trump announced that Bytedance, TikTok’s parent company, can restore services within a 90-day extension. However, this reprieve may be temporary, as the law requires Bytedance to sell its US business to a buyer approved by the US government.
The requirement for a “qualified divestiture” is a condition of the extension, and President Trump’s suggestion of 50% US ownership does not satisfy the requirements of the law.
Republican Senator Tom Cotton warned that companies hosting communist-controlled apps like TikTok could face significant liability under the law. This has led to caution among companies such as Apple and Google, which may be hesitant to restore the app to their stores.
Apple issued a support document regarding the ban, noting that certain apps are affected by the restriction, including Marvel Snap and CapCut. The document also states that users will not be able to download or update these apps while within the US borders.
TikTok’s return is seen as a significant development in its ongoing battle with US lawmakers over data privacy concerns. The app has stated its commitment to preserving free speech and working with President Trump on a long-term solution.
However, it remains unclear whether Apple and Google will restore TikTok to their stores, given the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the law and potential liability. As one analyst noted, “the chain of events should be highly concerning to all of us,” highlighting the need for better lawmaking in addressing concerns over app regulation.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/davidphelan/2025/01/20/tiktok-ban-apple-issues-unprecedented-response-for-iphone-users