Tech Giants Eye TikTok as U.S. Sale Talks Continue
As discussions continue over the future of TikTok in the United States, major tech companies are emerging as possible partners in a deal to keep the platform operational. The app is currently at risk of being banned under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, but President Donald Trump is seeking alternative solutions that could benefit both the U.S. and American businesses.
Oracle remains a key contender, as it already manages TikTok’s U.S. cloud operations. While Oracle CEO Larry Ellison has a long-standing relationship with Trump, the former president recently stated he has not directly discussed a TikTok acquisition with Ellison – meaning that Oracle may already be pushed aside in favour of other American companies. Still, Oracle has reportedly been involved in ongoing discussions regarding a potential stake in the app.
Amazon has also been linked to a possible deal, with speculation that it could use TikTok’s vast user base to promote its products. Meanwhile, Microsoft has been named in reports about acquisition talks, though the company has not publicly confirmed any negotiations – although Trump has hinted that there may have been talks about acquiring TikTok already.
Beyond these major corporations, investment groups – including those led by YouTuber MrBeast and Employer.com founder Jesse Tinsley – have expressed interest, though it remains unclear if they are viable bidders due to being individuals instead of established American companies. Elon Musk, owner of X, has reportedly opted out of any potential purchase.
While TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, is still exploring ways to retain control of the app, it only has so much time to do it. The extension to the original January 19th ban was only 75 days, which leaves 52 days remaining before the platform will either be banned properly or have to hope for another extension.