Mon Jan 20 10:02:33 UTC 2025: ## TikTok Restored in US Following Presidential Intervention
**Washington, D.C. – January 20, 2025** – Short-form video app TikTok has been reinstated in the United States following an executive order from newly inaugurated President Donald Trump. The app, which had been removed from app stores and ceased operation late Saturday, was restored on Sunday.
The reinstatement comes after a newly enacted law mandated the divestment of TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, by January 19th. Failure to comply threatened a complete ban. This action stemmed from concerns over potential misuse of American user data by ByteDance.
President Trump announced he would issue an executive order allowing TikTok’s continued operation in the US, but only on the condition that at least 50% ownership is transferred to American investors via a joint venture. He stated that this was necessary to protect the app’s 170 million American users.
In a statement, TikTok expressed gratitude to President Trump for providing assurances to its service providers, thereby avoiding potential penalties for restoring the app before a long-term solution is reached. The company confirmed it is working with President Trump to secure a lasting arrangement ensuring TikTok’s continued presence in the United States. While service has been restored, the app was not immediately available for download on US app stores Sunday evening. The White House also stated that any company assisting in the app’s temporary restoration before the executive order will be shielded from liability.
First Piper 