TikTok has on Saturday stopped working in the U.S and disappeared from Apple and Google app stores ahead of its ban that was to take effect on Sunday.
The app used by over 170 million Americans hopes that President-Elect Donald Trump will provide a 90 days window after he resumes office after Monday’s swearing-in ceremony.
“The 90-day extension is something that will be most likely done, because it’s appropriate,” said Donald Trump
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“A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now. We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned,” read a message on TikTok
The app owned by Chinese’s ByteDance is expected to cause diplomatic rows between the two countries as many Americans have been depending on it for both economic and cultural purposes.
U.S has never banned any social media app in its history but for the first time the motion to ban it was welcomed by many congress people who supported Trump’s idea and option to sell it in the U.S if it was to continue its operations.
The law passed by the congress was upheld by the Supreme Court after it was alleged that it posses a security concern to America. President Joe Biden’s administration however sees no issue with the social media platform but made it clear it is up to the incoming regime.
“We see no reason for TikTok or other companies to take actions in the next few days before the Trump administration takes office on Monday,” said press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre
The Chinese embassy in Washington has already issued a statement accusing the U.S of using its power to suppress TikTok as it promised to necessary measures are undertaken to protect it.
