TikTok To Return To App Stores

TikTok is set to return to the U.S. App Store this evening after being removed due to a federal ban. President Donald Trump issued an executive order delaying the ban’s enforcement by 75 days, leaving companies uncertain about the app’s legal status. According to Bloomberg, Apple will restore TikTok in the U.S. App Store after receiving a letter from U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi, assuring the company it wouldn’t face legal repercussions.  

The ban, effective since January 19th, 2025, required TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app’s U.S. operations or face prohibition. The executive order provides additional time for negotiations regarding the app’s ownership structure. The Justice Department’s letter offers legal assurances to companies like Apple and Google, enabling TikTok’s reinstatement and allowing it to continue updates and gain new users.  

While the delay offers temporary relief, the law remains in effect, and if enforced, Apple and Google could face significant fines for hosting the app. Discussions are ongoing, and a final decision is expected before the extension expires in April, with a possible further extension.  

The situation entails significant legal and business complexities, with potential implications for various stakeholders, including content creators and competing platforms. The resolution of TikTok’s status in the U.S. remains uncertain, and further developments are anticipated as the deadline approaches.