TikTok has resumed operations in the United States after a brief disruption that saw the app removed from both Apple and Google Play stores. This development follows President Trump’s intervention, which provided clarity to TikTok's service providers, thereby allowing the app to reach over 170 million American users. The decision not only benefits users but also supports over 7 million small businesses that rely on the platform.
President Trump's executive order played a crucial role in delaying a law that would have forced TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to either sell the app or face a ban in the US. The law, initially set to take effect, would have prohibited US companies from distributing, maintaining, or updating TikTok. Trump expressed his desire to see the app restored swiftly, emphasizing its significance for Americans during the upcoming Inauguration.
"Americans deserve to see our exciting Inauguration on Monday." – Donald Trump
TikTok confirmed its service restoration, stating it is "in the process of restoring service" in collaboration with its service providers. The company extended gratitude to President Trump for providing essential clarity and assurance, which safeguarded their service providers from potential penalties.
"In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service," – TikTok
"We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over 7 million small businesses to thrive." – TikTok
The looming law had threatened severe repercussions for any US company aiding TikTok, with Republican Senator Tom Cotton highlighting the risks involved.
"any company that hosts, distributes, services, or otherwise facilitates communist-controlled TikTok could face hundreds of billions of dollars of ruinous liability." – Republican Senator Tom Cotton
President Trump proposed a possible joint venture solution, suggesting a new ownership structure that includes a significant US stake.
"a joint venture between the current owners and/or new owners whereby the U.S. gets a 50% ownership." – Donald Trump
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