Everything you should know about the controversy surrounding the US ban on TikTok | World News
Impact of TikTok Ban on Users and Potential Workarounds
The TikTok bill, which has recently won congressional approval and is on its way to President Biden for his signature, has sparked concerns among TikTok users and parents of TikTok users alike. The measure gives ByteDance, the Chinese-owned parent company of TikTok, nine months to sell the company, with a possible additional three months if a sale is in progress. If ByteDance fails to comply, TikTok will be banned in the United States.
But what does this mean for you as a TikTok user? Here are some key questions and answers:
WHEN DOES THE BAN GO INTO EFFECT?
The ban would not go into effect immediately. ByteDance has at least nine months to divest from its US subsidiary, with a possible additional three months if a sale is in progress. This means it could be at least a year before a ban is implemented, with potential court challenges that could further delay the process.
WHAT IF I ALREADY DOWNLOADED IT?
Even if a ban is eventually put in place, TikTok is unlikely to disappear from your phone. However, it would be removed from Apple and Google’s app stores, making it impossible for new users to download the app. Without updates, security patches, and bug fixes, the app could become unusable over time.
ARE THERE WORKAROUNDS?
While some users may attempt to circumvent the ban using methods like VPNs or alternative app stores, the effectiveness of these strategies remains uncertain. Many users may choose to migrate to other platforms like Instagram or YouTube, which offer similar features to TikTok.
The TikTok bill’s reliance on the control that Apple and Google maintain over their smartphone platforms has raised questions about the effectiveness of such measures. Critics argue that directing tech giants to remove TikTok from their app stores may not be as impactful in a world where antitrust regulations against large tech firms are increasingly advocated for.
In conclusion, while the future of TikTok in the United States remains uncertain, users may need to prepare for potential changes in the app’s availability and functionality.
