TikTok prepares to shut down U.S. operations on Sunday

TikTok, the popular social media app with 170 million American users, faces imminent shutdown in the United States as a federal ban is set to take effect on Sunday. This development stems from a law signed in April requiring ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to divest its U.S. operations. If ByteDance fails to comply, U.S. companies will be barred from supporting TikTok’s distribution, maintenance, or updates, effectively rendering the app inoperable. Users attempting to access the app will see a message directing them to a website explaining the ban.

Despite looming restrictions, incoming President Donald Trump has signaled potential intervention to delay enforcement. Reports suggest Trump may issue an executive order postponing the shutdown for 60 to 90 days, allowing time to explore a political resolution. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court is deliberating whether to uphold the law, overturn it, or extend the deadline. Outgoing President Joe Biden has stated he will not intervene in his final days unless ByteDance presents a credible divestiture plan.

Public reaction has been swift, with users expressing both concern over the ban’s impact and hope that Trump’s administration might avert the shutdown. TikTok has filed legal challenges, arguing the law infringes on First Amendment protections. The company has also prepared contingency measures, including data export options for users and plans to resume operations quickly if the ban is reversed. However, TikTok has warned that halting U.S. operations could disrupt services globally, as the app relies heavily on American service providers.

As Sunday approaches, uncertainty persists. The outcome of the Supreme Court's decision, combined with potential political actions, will determine whether TikTok can continue to operate or if millions of users will lose access to one of the world’s most popular platforms.