TikTok announced late Friday that it will "go dark" in the United States on Sunday unless the government provides immediate assurances that the video-sharing platform will not face penalties under a looming federal ban. The app's statement follows the Supreme Court's decision earlier that day to uphold a law requiring TikTok's Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest from the platform or face removal from app stores and hosting services.
"The statements issued today by both the Biden White House and the Department of Justice have failed to provide the necessary clarity and assurance to the service providers that are integral to maintaining TikTok's availability to over 170 million Americans," TikTok said. Without a definitive response, TikTok warned it would have no choice but to cease operations in the U.S.
The ban, set to take effect on January 19, has left TikTok users, service providers, and app stores in a state of uncertainty. Initially, it was believed that existing TikTok users would not be affected, but TikTok's new statement suggests that the app may become completely unavailable, even for those who already have it installed.
The law, passed last year with bipartisan support, reflects growing concerns among U.S. lawmakers about TikTok's links to the Chinese government. Proponents argue that ByteDance's ownership presents national security risks, alleging that the Chinese Communist Party could exploit user data or manipulate content. TikTok has repeatedly denied such allegations, maintaining that it does not share user data with Beijing.
Outgoing President Joe Biden has largely avoided taking decisive action in his final days in office. White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre stated on Friday, "Actions to implement the law simply must fall to the next administration." This stance leaves the decision in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated on Monday.
Trump's approach to TikTok has been notably complex. Although he initially supported a ban during his first term, he has since softened his position. On Friday, Trump remarked, "My decision on TikTok will be made in the not too distant future, but I must have time to review the situation." He also left the door open for potential negotiations, saying, "Stay tuned!"
The Biden administration has indicated it will not enforce penalties during the transition period, further complicating the situation. TikTok and its advocates, including creators who rely on the platform for their livelihoods, are urging the government to issue clearer guidance. Jeffrey Fischer, a lawyer representing TikTok creators, called on Biden to pause enforcement of the law until the matter is clarified.
"In light of the interests involved, we respectfully request that you direct the Justice Department to pause enforcement until there is further definitive guidance," Fischer wrote in a letter shared with Politico.
The stakes are high for both TikTok and its massive user base in the U.S. ByteDance has refused to sell the app, stating that divestment is not a viable option. Without a buyer, TikTok faces imminent removal from Apple and Google app stores, as well as from web hosting platforms.