TikTok’s Fate Hangs in the Balance as Supreme Court Upholds Divestiture Law
The Supreme Court has dealt a significant blow to TikTok, upholding a law that requires its parent company, ByteDance, to divest its ownership of the popular social video app by Sunday or face a de facto ban in the United States. This decision could leave millions of American users without access to the app, although those who already have TikTok on their phones may still be able to use it.
National Security Concerns Take Center Stage
In a unanimous decision, the Supreme Court sided with the Biden administration, citing national security concerns related to TikTok’s data collection practices and its ties to the Chinese government. The court acknowledged that TikTok provides a unique platform for expression and community-building, but emphasized that Congress has deemed divestiture necessary to address these security concerns.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
If ByteDance refuses to sell TikTok, third-party internet service providers like Apple and Google will be penalized for supporting the app after the January 19 deadline. This could lead to TikTok being removed from app stores, making it impossible for users to download or update the app.
Critics Decry Decision as Harmful to Free Expression
Kate Ruane, director of the Center for Democracy and Technology, condemned the Supreme Court’s decision, arguing that it infringes upon the free expression of hundreds of millions of TikTok users worldwide. Ruane emphasized that the app is used for a wide range of purposes, including creating content, sharing information, and promoting businesses.
TikTok’s Fate Now in Trump’s Hands
With the deadline looming, TikTok’s future in the United States rests in the hands of President-elect Donald Trump, who has previously expressed interest in finding a political solution to the issue. Trump is set to be inaugurated on Monday, just one day after the deadline for TikTok’s sale.
Tech Leaders Weigh In
Tech leaders, including Apple CEO Tim Cook and Google CEO Sundar Pichai, have been urged to prepare for compliance with the law. Meanwhile, TikTok creators are already advising their fans to follow them on alternative social media platforms, such as YouTube and Facebook.
Alternative Apps Gain Traction
In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision, Chinese social media app RedNote has surged to the top of Apple’s app store, indicating that TikTok users are seeking alternative platforms. Additionally, the Chinese government has reportedly considered contingency plans, including a potential acquisition of TikTok’s U.S. operations by Elon Musk.
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