Cover photo by nuruyu
In the United States, the ban on TikTok was enacted on January 19, 2025, temporarily making it inaccessible to all users. However, an executive order by President Donald Trump immediately postponed the ban, allowing the service to resume.
Nevertheless, the app remains unavailable on the Google Play Store and Apple's App Store, preventing new installations and updates. In response, TikTok is exploring alternative download methods for Android users.
Photo by つばさ製作所
TikTok Ban and Its Background
TikTok was targeted for a ban by the U.S. government due to perceived national security risks. Last year, Congress passed a bill demanding the parent company, ByteDance, to either divest TikTok from Chinese ownership or face a ban. ByteDance refused to sell due to intellectual property concerns, leading to the ban's implementation on January 19.
However, President Trump issued an executive order shortly after taking office, extending the ban by 75 days, providing a grace period until April 5. Currently, negotiations over TikTok's sale continue in the U.S., with various companies being considered as potential buyers, although Elon Musk has stated he is not interested in acquiring the company.
Workarounds for Android and the Situation for iOS Users
Currently, TikTok has introduced a system for Android users to directly download the APK (Android Package Kit) from the official site. By using the website instead of the Google Play Store, users can install and update the app.
Photo by S.Yasu Photo
On the other hand, Apple prohibits sideloading on iOS devices, leaving iPhone users unable to install the app, forcing them to use the web browser version. Additionally, due to the confusion, used smartphones with TikTok installed are being sold at high prices on platforms like eBay. Attention is focused on how TikTok's fate will be decided by the April 5 deadline.
