With 170 million users in the US, TikTok faces a potential ban due to foreign ownership issues. The Biden administration is currently exploring alternatives to shutdown, while Trump, who will soon take office, expresses a desire to keep the app active for connecting with younger voters. Despite ongoing concerns about Chinese influence and data privacy, some users are turning to Xiaohongshu, a Chinese app similar to TikTok, as an alternative. The situation remains fluid as both users and officials await further developments.
TikTok’s Future in the USA: A Looming Deadline
Approximately 170 million TikTok users reside in the United States, but the app is facing a potential shutdown. This Sunday marks a crucial deadline under US law concerning foreign ownership of online platforms. If TikTok, which is owned by the China-based company ByteDance, remains under its current ownership, the app may be removed from American download platforms like Apple and Google.
However, recent indications suggest that TikTok may not be going anywhere just yet. The Biden administration, on its last day in office, appears hesitant to enforce the shutdown. An anonymous government official informed NBC that “Americans should not expect TikTok to suddenly be banned on Sunday,” as they are currently exploring alternative options.
Shifting Perspectives: Trump’s Stance on TikTok
As the baton passes to Donald Trump, who is set to take office the following day, the future of TikTok may hinge on his administration’s actions. Trump, who previously sought to force a sale of TikTok, now expresses a different sentiment: “Why would I want to get rid of TikTok?” His presence on the platform has enabled him to connect with younger voters effectively.
Although Trump must comply with existing laws, his team is actively seeking legal avenues to prevent TikTok’s departure. Trump’s future National Security Advisor, Mike Waltz, stated, “We will take measures to ensure that TikTok does not go away,” suggesting that a potential deal could be arranged.
Concerns regarding Chinese influence persist, especially with fears that TikTok could be leveraged for propaganda or data collection. While TikTok and ByteDance deny these allegations, the apprehension surrounding the app continues, prompting some users to explore alternatives.
One such alternative gaining traction is Xiaohongshu, or “Little Red Book,” a popular Chinese app that resembles a blend of TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest. Despite being available only in Chinese and subject to Chinese data regulations, Xiaohongshu is witnessing a surge in new users from the USA, many of whom are contributing English-language content.
The TikTok saga continues to unfold as both users and officials await the next moves from the incoming administration.