ByteDance’s TikTok, CapCut, and Lemon8 apps went offline in the U.S. before a nationwide ban citing national security concerns. The shutdown affects millions, prompting users to explore alternatives. President-elect Trump hinted at a possible 90-day reprieve, sparking hope for the platform’s return amidst ongoing debates over its future ownership.
ByteDance's flagship apps TikTok, CapCut, and Lemon8 went offline in the United States on Saturday, just hours before a federal ban on TikTok took effect. The ban, upheld by the Supreme Court, requires TikTok to sever ties with its Chinese parent company or cease operations due to national security concerns. Users logging in encountered messages explaining the shutdown, while TikTok hinted at a potential revival under President-elect Donald Trump, who suggested a possible 90-day reprieve.
The shutdown sent millions of users scrambling to alternatives like RedNote, while rivals such as Meta and Snap saw increased interest. Businesses relying on TikTok for marketing faced a chaotic scramble to adapt. Rumors of potential buyers, including Elon Musk and Frank McCourt, have surfaced, with analysts valuing TikTok's U.S. operations at $50 billion. Despite the uncertainty, TikTok remains optimistic about a resolution as its CEO plans to meet with Trump and attend the upcoming inauguration.
