TikTok Returns to U.S. App Stores as Ban Deadline Extended

TikTok has officially reappeared on Apple and Google app stores in the U.S. following a temporary removal last month. The popular short-form video platform, which has over 170 million American users, was granted a 75-day extension by President Donald Trump, delaying enforcement of a federal ban until April 5.

The app’s return follows assurances from the Trump administration that Apple and Google would not face legal consequences for allowing downloads. Initially, TikTok was removed due to a law requiring its parent company, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations to a neutral party or face an outright ban. The legislation, which received bipartisan support, was signed into law by former President Joe Biden, citing national security concerns over potential Chinese government influence.

While U.S. officials have argued that TikTok poses a risk for spying and political manipulation, both ByteDance and the Chinese government have repeatedly denied these allegations. Beijing has also rejected demands for a forced sale of TikTok’s U.S. division.

Despite his previous stance in favor of banning the app, Trump has softened his position in recent months. He has spoken positively about TikTok, emphasizing its role in his own political outreach and engagement with younger audiences. “What I’m thinking of saying to someone is buy it and give half to the U.S., half, and we’ll give you a permit,” Trump said at a recent press conference.

Potential buyers have surfaced, including Oracle co-founder Larry Ellison, billionaire Elon Musk, and investors like Frank McCourt and Kevin O’Leary. Even YouTube star MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson) has expressed interest after being approached by investors.