TikTok Goes Dark in the US Following Ban-or-Divest Law

Richard Lawler, a senior editor with a keen eye on tech, culture, policy, and entertainment, reported that TikTok has been removed from both Apple and Google's app stores and is currently unavailable on the web. Users who attempt to open the app are blocked from viewing videos, effectively rendering the app unusable. This follows the implementation of a ban-or-divest law that was passed last year.

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Impact of the Shutdown

The shutdown has led to the removal of a social network that was used by 170 million people in the US, according to TikTok's own numbers. This is an unprecedented event, as no network as large as TikTok has simply shut down without any indication of if or when it will come back online.

Response from TikTok

In response to the shutdown, TikTok has stated that it has been forced to close shop in the US without clearer assurances. An internal memo to employees indicated that President Trump has expressed willingness to work on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office on January 20th. Teams are reportedly working tirelessly to bring the app back to the U.S. as soon as possible.

User Notification

TikTok began notifying users of the shutdown around 9PM ET on Saturday evening. The notification stated that a US law banning TikTok would take effect on January 19th and force the company to make its services temporarily unavailable. The company also expressed its commitment to restoring service in the US as soon as possible.