TikTok remains unavailable for download in the US Apple App Store and Google Play, despite temporarily restoring access to its service. As a result, the company recommends users download and install the app directly from its official website.
The app was suspended on January 19, just before a law took effect requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok to a US company to continue operating in the country. Under this law, Apple and Google had to remove the app from their stores or face a fine of $5,000 per user download. Although TikTok restored service less than a day after Donald Trump’s decision, it has not yet returned to the Apple or Google stores, as reported by Engadget.
Ongoing Sale Talks and Legal Uncertainty
One of Trump’s executive orders suspended the app ban for 75 days, giving ByteDance until April to find a buyer in the US. Trump has reportedly tasked Vice President James Vance with leading the negotiations.
While ByteDance has previously stated it has no plans to sell TikTok, one of its largest investors recently suggested the sale is necessary and in “everyone’s best interest.” Several parties have shown interest in acquiring TikTok’s US operations, including Perplexity AI and MrBeast.
TikTok’s Future in the US Remains Unclear
The ongoing uncertainty around TikTok’s future in the US depends on the outcome of the sale discussions and further policy decisions, reminds NIX Solutions. TikTok’s recommendation to download the app outside official stores only underscores the unstable situation and the company’s effort to maintain its US audience.
Typically, companies discourage bypassing official stores, but given the circumstances, TikTok has made this option available on its website. We’ll keep you updated as more developments unfold.