TikTok announced on Sunday that it has restored its service in the United States, following remarks from President-elect Donald Trump, who pledged to reinstate access to the popular platform upon taking office.
In a message directed at its users, TikTok stated, “As a result of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.” The app had experienced disruptions over the weekend, ceasing to function for many U.S. users late Saturday, just before a new law aimed at shutting it down on national security grounds took effect.
Earlier on Sunday, reports emerged that some users were able to access TikTok’s website again, while the app itself began coming back online for select users. In a previous statement, TikTok expressed gratitude to Trump for facilitating a return to service, citing his assurance to service providers that they would face no penalties for continuing to support the platform. “TikTok is in the process of restoring service,” the company announced, highlighting its role in the livelihoods of over 7 million small businesses in the U.S.
Trump reiterated his commitment to negotiate a deal that would address national security concerns related to the Chinese-owned app. “I would like the United States to have a 50 percent ownership position in a joint venture,” he wrote on Truth Social, indicating his intention to extend the timeframe before the law’s prohibitions take effect to allow negotiations.
The former president had previously signaled a likely 90-day reprieve from the ban after his inauguration, a promise that TikTok referenced in its communications to users. As the platform navigates this turbulent political landscape, it remains to be seen what the future holds for its operations in the U.S. and the millions of users who rely on it daily.
With the restoration of services, TikTok not only reaffirms its presence in the American digital landscape but also highlights the complexities of foreign technology in a rapidly evolving geopolitical environment.
