Timeline of the TikTok Ban: How We Arrived and What Lies Ahead
On Friday, the Supreme Court confirmed a ban on TikTok, meaning that Americans may lose access to the app starting this Sunday. This potential closure of the widely-used platform, which has 170 million users in the U.S., has sparked intense discussions regarding First Amendment rights, the government’s authority to limit internet access, and concerns about national security.
Here’s a recap of how the TikTok ban came to be and what might happen moving forward:
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What’s next for TikTok?
On Friday, TikTok’s CEO, Shou Zi Chew, expressed gratitude to U.S. users and former President Trump via the app:
So, what will occur on Sunday? TikTok intends to start redirecting users to a notification about the ban. The app won’t be deleted from users’ devices, and the company doesn’t have to stop the service entirely; however, it’s anticipated that both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store will likely remove the app. Internet service providers may also begin to cease services related to TikTok in order to comply with the new law and avoid penalties.
At the same time, there is ongoing speculation about possible U.S. investors — names like Tesla CEO Elon Musk, former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, “Shark Tank” investor Kevin O’Leary, content creator MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson), Activision CEO Bobby Kotick, Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, Canadian musician Dax, and Microsoft have surfaced as potential candidates.
Contributors: Greta Cross, Shawn J. Sullivan.
Further Insights on the TikTok Ban
The Supreme Court maintains the legislation that could lead to a TikTok ban in the United States, putting the issue in the hands of Trump.
Is TikTok facing an imminent ban this weekend? Here’s what to know following the Supreme Court’s ruling.
Is TikTok banned? Can you continue to use it? Essential information after the Supreme Court’s confirmation of the ban.
When will the TikTok ban take effect? Information regarding the app and its potential discontinuation.
Trump speaks with China’s Xi Jinping just hours prior to the Supreme Court’s TikTok decision.
President Biden opts not to enforce the impending TikTok ban, leaving the decision to Trump.
Who stands to gain the most from a possible TikTok ban? Duolingo could benefit significantly — here’s why.
The impending TikTok ban puts the livelihoods of content creators at risk.
