TikTok Ban: Trump's latest delay gives the app more time in the US market

A 75-day extension has been granted by Trump for the China deals.

Illustration: TechBird

The TikTok saga continues, a whirlwind of twists and turns. Just when the clock seemed to be ticking down, President Trump has once again delayed the ban, extending TikTok's presence in the US market for another 75 days. This latest executive order leaves users and industry watchers wondering: What's next for the popular app?

Just a day before the initial ban deadline, Trump announced via Truth Social, 'I am signing an Executive Order to keep TikTok up and running for an additional 75 days.' This move follows a previous 75-day delay granted after the Supreme Court's initial ban decision. The ongoing uncertainty stems from negotiations surrounding the potential sale of TikTok's US operations.

ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, has confirmed discussions with the US government, stating, 'ByteDance has been in discussion with the U.S. Government regarding a potential solution for TikTok U.S. An agreement has not been executed. There are key matters to be resolved. Any agreement will be subject to approval under Chinese law.' This highlights the complex geopolitical factors influencing TikTok's future.

Despite the ban's looming threat, TikTok has taken steps to ensure accessibility, offering an official APK file for download directly from their website, bypassing app store restrictions, which were later removed by App Store and Google Play Store. However, a new twist has emerged since Trump introduced 34% tariffs on Chinese imports. This move is widely seen as a potential bargaining chip, pressuring China to approve a TikTok deal. Trump has hinted at lowering tariffs in exchange for a successful agreement.

As the extended deadline approaches, major players like Oracle, Blackstone, Frank McCourt, Amazon, Applovin, and Perplexity are reportedly vying for a stake in TikTok. The question remains: if a deal fails, what will fill the void in the US market?

Competitors are already positioning themselves. Meta's Instagram, with its TikTok-like Reels, has introduced 3-minute Reels and plans for a standalone Reels app. YouTube, TikTok's direct rival, has also enhanced its YouTube Shorts with TikTok-style editing tools, aiming to capture the audience.

The drama surrounding the TikTok ban and its potential sale continues. Stay tuned for updates on the deal's outcome.

 What are your thoughts? Will TikTok remain in the US market, or will another platform seize the opportunity? Share your predictions in the comments below.