DELHI, INDIA — TikTok, the popular short-video platform, is back for millions of users in the United States just hours after going offline late Saturday night. The app’s return is credited to a move by President-elect Donald Trump, who announced plans to delay a law that threatened TikTok’s operations in the country.
Upon restoration, TikTok welcomed users with a message:
“Thanks for your patience and support. As a result of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.!”
The platform had abruptly gone offline, showing a message to American users that the app was temporarily unavailable. It stated:
“A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now.”
In addition to TikTok, other apps owned by ByteDance, including Lemon8 and CapCut, were removed from app stores. The situation left TikTok’s 170 million U.S. users uncertain about the app’s future.
TikTok is back in the U.S. after President Trump’s efforts to delay the ban. Millions of users can now enjoy the app without interruption! #TikTok #Trump #TikTokReturn #USNews #SocialMedia #TrumpExecutiveOrder https://t.co/5AKUljMDVL
— IND12 (@IND12news) January 19, 2025
Trump’s Intervention Brings Quick Resolution
Early Sunday, Trump announced he would issue an executive order on Monday, following his inauguration, to delay enforcement of the divest-or-ban law. This announcement allowed TikTok to resume operations almost immediately.
TikTok expressed gratitude in a statement:
“In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over 7 million small businesses to thrive.”
The platform also hinted at working with Trump’s administration to secure its long-term future in the United States.
A Relief for Millions of Users
TikTok’s swift return is welcome news for its millions of daily users who rely on the app for entertainment, news, and even income. The move also brings relief to countless small businesses that use the platform to connect with customers.
While TikTok is back online, the road ahead remains uncertain. Ensuring the app’s permanent presence in the U.S. will likely involve complex negotiations between ByteDance and the government.
TikTok CEO to Attend Trump Events
TikTok CEO Shou Chew is expected to attend Trump’s “Make America Great Again Victory Rally” on Sunday night and will also be prominently seated at Trump’s inauguration on Monday. This symbolic gesture underscores the close cooperation between TikTok and the incoming administration.
For now, TikTok users can breathe a sigh of relief as their favorite platform resumes service, with promises of a brighter future under the new leadership.