TikTok restored on iOS and Android app stores in the US

Short- video sharing platform TikTok was removed from Apple and Google app stores last month, ahead of a law that took effect on January 19 that requires TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app over national security concerns or face being banned from operating in the United States, Reuters reported.

However, a day later, Mr. Trump signed an executive order to delay the ban for another 75 days, allowing TikTok to continue operating in the US market. Despite this move, Apple and Google still maintain their decision to remove TikTok from their app stores until there is clear legal assurance.

TikTok reappears in app stores after ban delay, allowing US users to continue downloading and using the app

PHOTO: RADIANTMEDIA SCREENSHOT

By February 13, TikTok announced that the app was available for download again. Analysts said the delay may have been due to Apple and Google waiting for confirmation that they would not be penalized for continuing to distribute the app.

Mr Trump’s order makes it clear that companies that operate app stores or digital distribution platforms will not be held liable for keeping TikTok on their systems. TikTok had previously reached more than 52 million downloads in 2024, according to market research firm Sensor Tower, with 52% of those downloads coming from the Apple App Store and 48% from Google Play in the US.

The requirement for ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban stems from a law signed by former US President Joe Biden in April last year. The law was enacted based on concerns that China could use the app to collect data on US users. It is the first time the US government has had legal grounds to seek to ban a major social media platform. In addition to TikTok, the law allows the government to target other Chinese-origin apps if national security concerns arise.

Trump also said the 75-day deadline for TikTok could be extended. Several investors have expressed interest in buying TikTok, including former Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team owner Frank McCourt, who is considering investing in the app.

There were rumors that billionaire Elon Musk might be involved in the TikTok acquisition, especially after Mr. Trump hinted at the possibility. However, Mr. Musk has just denied the information.

TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, has remained steadfast in its stance that it will not sell the app to the U.S., while TikTok continues to face legal and political challenges in this important market.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tiktok-duoc-khoi-phuc-tren-kho-ung-dung-ios-va-android-tai-my-185250215211011993.htm