TikTok returns to Apple and Google app stores in the US
TikTok has returned to app stores in the US.
The popular social media app disappeared from Apple and Google devices last month, despite US President Donald Trump postponing a law stating it should be banned nationwide.
TikTok briefly went dark on 19 January before returning 24 hours later with a message thanking Trump for giving it a stay of execution.
While the Chinese-owned platform has been available since then, users have been unable to download it via official channels.
It is believed that Trump has now stepped in and has provided assurances to both Apple and Google that they won’t face any action for allowing downloads again.
The new president has already granted TikTok a 75-day extension to the pending ban, meaning it has until 5 April to find a buyer for its US operations.
That’s despite the original ban due to security concerns, passing through Congress last year, with US political figures worried that China could use it to spy on users.
While Trump originally agreed with that assessment during his first presidency, he has since stated he has a “warm spot” for the app.
That is partly due to his surging popularity on the platform.
Trump is now trying to find a concrete solution to end the recent uncertainty.
At a recent news conference, he noted: “What I’m thinking of saying to someone is buy it and give half to the US, and we’ll give you a permit.”
Several leading tech figures have thrown their hat into the ring, including Tesla and X owner Elon Musk, Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, and YouTube star’ Mr Beast’.