WASHINGTON, Jan 19 (Reuters) - TikTok has initiated the process of reinstating its services on Sunday following the President's statement to restore the app's access in the U.S. upon his return to office on Monday.
Explaining the decision, the President stated, "Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it," highlighting plans for a joint venture to revive the short-video sharing app, popular among 170 million Americans.
In a message to users just before the rally, TikTok conveyed, "As a result of President Trump's efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S."
Following reports of U.S. users regaining access to the Chinese-owned service's website, TikTok confirmed ongoing efforts to restore services, expressing gratitude to Trump for providing reassurance to service providers. The app temporarily reappeared online for some users, although it remained unavailable for download on U.S. app stores late on Sunday.
Addressing the situation, China's foreign ministry stressed the importance of companies making independent decisions regarding their operations and deals, emphasizing the value TikTok holds for American users.
Previously, TikTok was facing a ban in the U.S. due to concerns over data security under its Chinese parent company ByteDance. However, with Trump's intervention, plans for salvaging TikTok have taken a different turn, with considerations for U.S. ownership in a potential joint venture.
Efforts to save TikTok have stirred a debate within the Republican Party, with differing opinions on the legality and implications of potential solutions. Amidst uncertainties, various search trends and concerns among users paint a complex picture of the app's future in the U.S. marketplace.
CEO Shou Zi Chew's attendance at the U.S. presidential inauguration and engagement with Trump indicate a significant turn of events for TikTok, with potential suitors expressing interest in the lucrative business, including discussions about U.S. operations.
As TikTok navigates this challenging landscape, the future of the app in the U.S. remains uncertain, with various players exploring options to secure its presence while addressing national security concerns and business interests.