As uncertainty looms over a potential TikTok ban, attention has shifted to Apple and Google, which may be required to remove the app from their platforms in the next two days.
The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday upheld a federal law that could lead to TikTok’s nationwide ban, but how this will unfold remains unclear. What Americans will experience starting midnight Sunday is still uncertain.
The court’s decision comes amid political tension, with President-elect Donald Trump asserting he can negotiate a resolution after taking office, while President Joe Biden’s administration has indicated it won’t enforce the law during its final day in office. This ambiguity has left tech companies and users speculating about what will happen over the weekend.
“We’re entering uncharted territory in tech policy,” noted Sarak Kreps, director of Cornell University’s Tech Policy Institute.
Under the new law, app stores like those run by Apple and Google, along with internet hosting providers, face significant fines if they continue to distribute TikTok in the U.S. after the deadline for ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, to divest. Penalties of up to $5,000 per user could accumulate to massive sums.
Late Friday, TikTok issued a statement on X accusing the Biden administration of failing to provide clarity to service providers. The platform warned that, absent assurances of non-enforcement, TikTok might “go dark” on January 19.
Experts believe existing users may still access TikTok for now, but without updates, the app could eventually become obsolete. Trump’s incoming national security adviser hinted that the new administration might explore ways to prevent TikTok’s shutdown, though details remain vague.
“My decision on TikTok will come soon,” Trump said Friday on Truth Social, referencing discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Meanwhile, the spotlight has turned to companies like Apple, Google, and Oracle, which host TikTok or its data. These firms have a history of complying with government app removal requests—Apple removed over 1,300 apps in China last year alone.
Sen. Tom Cotton, R-Ark., highlighted potential penalties, warning they could exceed $850 billion. “I wouldn’t risk it if I were running these companies,” he said on X.
Cybersecurity expert David Choffnes from Northeastern University stated there’s a slim chance TikTok remains unaffected but noted the risk to supporting companies is substantial.
Apple, Google, and Oracle have not commented on their plans regarding TikTok. However, TikTok CEO Shou Chew expressed optimism in a video after the court’s ruling, thanking President-elect Trump for his willingness to work with the company. Chew emphasized TikTok’s importance in connecting millions of Americans and generating billions of views.
TikTok has assured U.S. employees their jobs, pay, and benefits are secure, even if operations are disrupted. In a memo reported by The New York Times, TikTok clarified that the law targets U.S. user access, not its workforce.
Additionally, a letter from TikTok creators’ attorney to President Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland requested a pause in enforcement until clearer guidance is issued. The letter also sought assurances for app stores and hosting providers, emphasizing the need for definitive legal clarity.
