TikTok warns of shutdown in the U.S. amid Supreme Court ban
TikTok announced on Friday that it will shut down its app in the U.S. on Sunday unless President Joe Biden’s administration assures service providers, such as Apple and Google, they won’t face penalties under the recently upheld ban. The U.S. Supreme Court’s unanimous 9-0 ruling affirmed the law banning TikTok over national security concerns, sparking uncertainty for the app’s 170 million American users.
TikTok’s statement highlighted urgency. “Without a clear assurance from the Biden administration, TikTok will go dark on January 19,” the company said. The White House declined to respond, further fueling concerns.
The law, passed last year with bipartisan support and signed by Biden, prohibits U.S. companies from providing services to TikTok. Apple, Google, and Oracle face heavy fines if they continue supporting the app after the deadline. TikTok, owned by Chinese firm ByteDance, has not yet sold its U.S. operations as required by the ban.
The Supreme Court rejected arguments from TikTok and ByteDance that the law violates free speech rights. Lawmakers remain divided, with some pushing to preserve the app’s U.S. operations despite security concerns.
Former President Donald Trump, set to begin his second term on January 20, indicated he may intervene. In a social media post, Trump stated, “My decision on TikTok will be made soon.” He also revealed discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, suggesting a potential resolution.
TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew plans to attend Trump’s inauguration on Monday, raising speculation about behind-the-scenes negotiations. While Biden has the authority to delay the ban by 90 days, he has not used this option, leaving the app’s fate to the next administration.
As the deadline nears, TikTok users, tech giants, and service providers face uncertainty. Apple, Google, and Oracle, which play crucial roles in supporting TikTok’s operations, have not commented on their plans to comply with the law.
The app’s potential shutdown could disrupt millions of users and creators who rely on TikTok for entertainment, business, and communication. However, analysts believe any shutdown may be temporary if Trump’s administration intervenes to find a resolution.
For now, the clock is ticking. TikTok remains in a precarious position, with its future hinging on rapid action from either Biden or Trump. Meanwhile, tech giants must navigate legal risks and prepare for potential penalties if they fail to sever ties with the platform.
