CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – Existing TikTok users were able to resume using the popular social media app following a short shutdown on Sunday, but anyone seeking to download or update the app in the past week have run into notifications from the app stores that they cannot download them.
Android users who go to download or update TikTok in the Google Play Store find a message saying “Downloads for this app are paused due to current U.S. legal requirements.”
iPhone users going to the Apple Store find similar language. TikTok is inaccessible in the app store and those looking for it receive the message “TikTok and other ByteDance apps are not available in the country or region you’re in.”
Just before President Donald Trump took office on Monday, TikTok became inaccessible. The Supreme Court upheld a law passed by Congress that would effectively ban the app in the United States on Sunday – citing national security concerns.
Hours later, the app became accessible again and credited President Trump’s “efforts” for getting TikTok “back in the U.S.!” On Monday, Trump signed an Executive Order that, in part, instructed the Attorney General not to take any action to enforce the legislation against TikTok for 75 days.
What This Means for TikTok Users
For the time being, current TikTok users in the U.S. can continue scrolling through videos, uploading content, and engaging with the platform as usual. However, the inability to download updates raises concerns about the long-term functionality and security of the app. Updates often include bug fixes, new features, and critical security patches, meaning the app may become less stable or secure over time without them.
What Comes Next?
While TikTok remains functional for now, the platform’s long-term presence in the United States is uncertain. Ongoing negotiations between TikTok, lawmakers, and regulators will likely determine whether the app can return to app stores or face additional restrictions.on
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