TikTok has resumed operations for its 170 million US users after President-elect Donald Trump announced plans to issue an executive order delaying the implementation of a law banning the app.
The platform, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, had gone dark for American users on Saturday, January 18, following the enforcement of the ban on national security grounds. 
Trump, who had previously supported banning TikTok, stated on Sunday that he would extend the timeline to allow for a potential deal to safeguard national security while keeping the app in the US.
“I’m asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark! I will issue an executive order on Monday to extend the period of time before the law’s prohibitions take effect so that we can make a deal to protect our national security,” Trump posted on Truth Social, his social media platform.
In response, TikTok confirmed it was restoring services, with a popup message on the app thanking Trump by name.
In a statement, the company expressed gratitude to the president-elect for “providing the necessary clarity and assurance” and committed to working with the new administration to find a “long-term solution” that ensures TikTok’s continued presence in the US.
The ban, upheld by the Supreme Court on Friday, required ByteDance to divest its US operations.
However, ByteDance had previously refused to comply, sparking national security concerns about data collection and potential ties to the Chinese government.
While the ban technically went into effect on Sunday, it is expected that Trump’s executive order will delay its enforcement, though the legal authority to override the active law remains unclear.
TikTok CEO Shou Chew is expected to attend Trump’s inauguration on Monday, further underscoring the administration’s intention to resolve the matter amicably.
The app’s restoration marks a significant relief for its millions of American users, who had begun to express frustration over the sudden disruption.
Trump’s move has been interpreted as a balance between addressing national security concerns and ensuring access to entertainment for millions of Americans.
TikTok, which has become a vital platform for content creators, businesses, and users seeking entertainment, had been under scrutiny for its data privacy practices.
Despite the controversy, Trump’s decision has garnered positive responses from TikTok users and advocates of digital freedom, who see the extension as an opportunity to secure the app’s future in the US.
Meanwhile, discussions on how to ensure user data safety and compliance with US regulations remain ongoing, as both parties work toward a long-term agreement.
As the situation unfolds, TikTok’s continued availability will likely hinge on the terms of the deal being negotiated between ByteDance and the incoming administration.
However, for now, millions of Americans can breathe a sigh of relief as their favorite app is back online.
