TikTok is set to launch a new version of its app on September 5, which will be available on Apple’s and Google’s app stores. This move comes as part of a major agreement concerning the sale of its US operations. Users in the United States will eventually need to transition to the new version of the app, although TikTok indicates that the current version will remain functional until March 2026. This update aims to address security concerns related to user data while offering the new owners control over the US app.
A consortium of non-Chinese tech companies, including Oracle, is expected to acquire TikTok’s US business, while its original owner, Bytedance, will retain a minority stake. Users will have to install the new app to continue using TikTok, as the existing version will be disabled in March 2026 if not updated. The push for this change began during the Biden administration, which raised alarms about the storage of US user data by a Chinese company. To mitigate these issues, Congress mandated Bytedance to either sell TikTok or face a potential ban in the US.
The Biden administration is reportedly claiming credit for orchestrating the sale to an investor group, but the finalization of the deal also hinges on approval from the Chinese government. Recently, TikTok has made efforts to ensure US data security by planning to use Oracle servers within the US. However, the previous administration had delayed enforcement of a ban pending resolution of this issue, with TikTok having briefly gone offline in January due to compliance concerns. As the launch date approaches, challenges remain.
When the new version of TikTok is released, the current app will be removed from app stores, leading to potential service interruptions for around 170 million US users. The timeline and conditions surrounding the sale continue to evolve amidst increasing tensions between the US and China. TikTok has yet to issue a public comment on these developments.
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