
The debate over banning TikTok in the United States has been ongoing for years. In December 2022, the U.S. government prohibited the app on federal government devices. By 2023, lawmakers pushed for a complete nationwide ban.
Now, the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, requires ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations by January 19.
If this doesn’t happen, the app may face a nationwide ban. Existing users could still access the app temporarily, but new downloads would be prohibited, and app functionality might gradually decline.
ByteDance has stated it is unlikely to meet the deadline.
The law was introduced due to concerns about ByteDance’s ties to the Chinese government and potential risks related to data privacy.
However, the app has challenged the law, arguing it violates First Amendment rights.
Some lawmakers, like Senator Edward Markey, are proposing an extension of 270 days, citing the app’s importance for millions of users who rely on it for social and economic reasons.
The Supreme Court is reviewing the matter, and a decision is expected soon. What’s your take?
ManilaShaker is a tech media producing insightful and helpful content for our local and growing international audience. Our goal is to create a premier Philippine digital consumer electronics resource that provides the most objective reviews and comparisons globally.