TikTok has resumed services for U.S. users after President-elect Donald Trump announced the app would be allowed back online following his inauguration. The platform, which had faced potential shutdown due to national security concerns, thanked Trump for his intervention and clarity. While some functionality has returned, TikTok is still unavailable for download in U.S. app stores, though full service restoration is expected as negotiations continue.
The shutdown was triggered by a U.S. law aiming to restrict TikTok due to concerns over data security with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. Trump, who had previously sought a ban on the app, proposed a solution allowing TikTok to continue operating with a joint venture that gives the U.S. a 50% stake in its operations.
While some Republican senators argue that the law should be enforced, others support Trump’s plan to keep the app accessible. TikTok’s return is critical for its over 170 million U.S. users, many of whom rely on it for business and marketing. Discussions are ongoing regarding a potential sale or partnership to secure its future in the U.S., with notable figures like Elon Musk reportedly exploring options.