TikTok Ban Status: Latest Updates on App Store Removals, Trump's 50% Ownership Proposal, and Service Restoration

TikTok Ban Status: Latest Updates on App Store Removals, Trump's 50% Ownership Proposal, and Service Restoration

By Marcus Bennett

January 20, 2025 at 01:14 AM

TikTok remains unavailable on major app stores following the implementation of the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. Here's the current status and latest developments.

Current Availability Status (as of January 19th, 4:00 pm PT):

  • Apple App Store: Not Available
  • Google Play Store: Not Available
  • Existing Downloaded Apps: Still Working
  • Web Version: Accessible
  • Akamai: Available
  • Oracle: Available

TikTok error screen on iPhone

TikTok error screen on iPhone

Key Timeline:

January 18th, 11:15 pm PT:

  • Supreme Court denied TikTok's appeal
  • App removed from Apple App Store and Google Play Store
  • Existing users can still access the app

January 19th, 4:00 am PT:

  • Trump proposed 50% U.S. ownership in TikTok joint venture
  • Proposal aims to keep TikTok operational in the U.S.
  • ByteDance's response pending

January 19th, 12:27 pm PT:

  • TikTok announced service restoration process
  • Company thanked Trump for providing clarity
  • Major CDNs (Akamai, Oracle) restored availability
  • Trump expected to issue Executive Order extending ban deadline
  • Penalties against app carriers to be lifted

The situation remains fluid, with service providers gradually restoring access following Trump's assurances. The app continues to be accessible for existing users, while new downloads remain restricted on major app stores. The proposed joint venture structure could provide a path forward for TikTok's continued operation in the United States.

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