The popular video application TikTok faces an uncertain future in the United States. A federal law could veto it in the country if it does not separate itself from its Chinese parent company, ByteDancebefore January 19, 2025. However, the possibility of a purchase by American investors keeps the debate alive.
President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming national security adviser said Thursday that the new administration will keep TikTok alive in the United States if there is a workable deal.
“We will put measures in place to prevent TikTok from disappearing,” Mike Waltz said, noting that the law authorizes a 90-day extension for the app’s Chinese owner, ByteDance, to complete a divestment “as long as there is a workable agreement on the table”. “Essentially, that gives President Trump time to maintain TikTok,” he said.
The value of TikTok and the algorithm dilemma
Analysts estimate that TikTok could be worth between 100,000 and 200,000 million dollars with its algorithm, but without this key component, the value could fall to less than 50 billion. According to ByteDance, separating the technology and commercial operation of the app is unfeasible, while experts point out that China would hardly approve the sale of the algorithm, considered its “best kept secret.”
The algorithm is a critical point, as US authorities consider it vulnerable to manipulation by the Chinese government. This has been a central argument to justify the restrictions.
Possible buyers and restructuring plans
- Frank McCourtbusinessman and former owner of the Dodgers, leads a group interested in acquiring TikTok. It proposes migrating the platform to an open source protocol, providing greater transparency and control over user data.
- Steven Mnuchinformer Secretary of the Treasury, has also shown interest, forming a consortium of investors. During his tenure, he negotiated a deal that would have involved Oracle and Walmart as major shareholders of TikTok for security reasons.
- Other names mentioned include Tesla CEO, Elon Musk; the influencer MrBeast; and the former CEO of Blizzard-Activision, Bobby Kotick. However, his specific intentions are not confirmed.
Political intervention and the role of Donald Trump
The elected president, donald trumphas asked the Supreme Court to suspend the law, with the intention of seeking a negotiated solution once he takes office on January 20. Although his plans have not been detailed, his team has indicated that he will deliver on his campaign promise to “save TikTok.”
Justice Department nominee Pam Bondi has not clarified whether she will advocate for a ban, adding uncertainty to the outlook.
What’s next for TikTok?
If a deal is not reached by the deadline, TikTok could disappear from app stores in the US, although current users would retain limited access. Alternatives such as using VPNs pose challenges in terms of privacy and security, and without updates, the app’s functionality could deteriorate.
The fate of TikTok could mark a precedent in the relationship between big global technologies and politics, with significant implications for the social media industry and the handling of personal data.
TikTok faces global bans: the case of the United States and other countries
TikTok, the popular short video app, is under increasing international pressure, with several nations clamping down over concerns ranging from national security to the social impact of its content.
The United States could join the list of countries that have imposed significant restrictions, marking a turning point for the platform.
Ban imminent in the United States
January 19, 2025 will be key for TikTok in the US, as a hearing is scheduled that could determine its future in the country. If the ban is finalized, companies like Apple and Google would be legally obliged to remove the application from their stores and stop updates. Although current users could continue using the app, the lack of maintenance and updates could deteriorate its functionality and security.
This decision is based on concerns of national securitywith accusations that the Chinese government could use TikTok to collect data from American users and conduct propaganda. The current administration seeks strict measures to avoid potential espionage risks.
Restrictions in other countries
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India: In 2020, it became the first country to ban TikTok outright, citing concerns about sovereignty and national security. The measure affected millions of users and content creators, who migrated to alternatives such as Instagram and YouTube.
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Nepal: Blocked TikTok for almost a year, considering it a vehicle of social disharmony. Although the ban was lifted in 2024, the case reflects tensions related to the platform’s content.
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Europe and Canada: Countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Canada have restricted TikTok on government devices for security reasons. These measures do not affect common users but reinforce distrust towards the app in official sectors.
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Russia and Indonesia: Russia has imposed fines on TikTok for spreading inappropriate content, while Indonesia has strictly regulated features like the TikTok Shop, complicating the company’s operation in the country.
Lessons from India and the alternatives
The case of India shows that, after a ban, users and creators often adapt quickly, migrating to competing platforms such as instagram and YouTube. However, this transition can be complex, especially for small businesses and entrepreneurs who relied on TikTok to reach their audiences.
Global impact and future of TikTok
The outcome in the US could trigger a wave of similar measures in Europe and other regions. Additionally, the potential reliance on VPNs to access the app after a ban poses additional security and privacy challenges.
While TikTok remains a dominant platform, its future will depend on how it manages growing regulatory tensions and its ability to adapt to global restrictions.
Source: Ambito
