TikTok Set to Cease US Operations Sunday Unless Supreme Court Intervenes
TikTok plans to cease US operations starting Sunday unless the Supreme Court intervenes to block the federal ban. The shutdown will begin with the app's removal from Apple and Google app stores on January 19, as mandated by law if ByteDance fails to sell to a US company.
While existing users can temporarily continue using the app, ByteDance plans to implement additional measures:
- Display popup messages explaining the ban
- Direct users to an informational website
- Provide options for users to download their personal data
The ban stems from legislation signed by President Biden requiring Chinese-based ByteDance to sell its US assets by January 19, 2025, or face nationwide restrictions. Though the Supreme Court appears likely to uphold the law, some lawmakers and President-elect Trump have advocated for extending the deadline.
ByteDance and TikTok continue challenging the law, arguing it violates First Amendment rights. However, courts have consistently ruled against this position. Sources indicate that while service shutdown requires minimal planning, TikTok could easily restore operations if the ban is reversed.
TikTok logo against black background
Key Timeline:
- January 19: Ban on new downloads begins
- January 19, 2025: Deadline for ByteDance to sell US assets
- Post-ban: Existing users can continue until updates cease
- Trump's inauguration occurs day after law takes effect
The shutdown's impact will be immediate for new users while gradually affecting existing ones as updates become unavailable. TikTok's technical team confirms they can quickly restore service if legal circumstances change.
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