The night of January 18th, TikTok users were in a frenzy when the app shut down their services for those in the U.S due to the nationwide bans. The next morning, Americans were shocked to find that the app restored their services, with a notification displayed upon opening the app, crediting their ability to remain open in the U.S to President Trump.

“Welcome back! Thanks for your patience and support. As a result of President Trump’s efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S! You can continue to create, share, and discover all the things you love on TikTok,” stated the app’s announcement.

On January 20th, Inauguration Day, Trump signed an executive order, delaying the TikTok ban by 75 days. It’s said he will use this time period to determine the appropriate course of action, protecting national security whilst avoiding the sudden shutdown of the popular app. Trump also stated that this may give TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, more time to find a suitable buyer.

Although the app remains working for those who have it downloaded, it is no longer available in the app store. This raises the question for some of whether or not the app will start to crash, or bugs will start to occur. Those who deleted the app in preparation of the ban are unable to redownload it. 

Multiple people speculate that TikTok’s announcement, and temporary closing were a PR stunt to raise support for Trump. The law implemented does not force TikTok to shut down, but forces TikTok’s technology partners, such as Apple, stop supporting the app. This includes offering the app in the app store, allowing updates for the app, etc. Companies that do not follow this can face fines up to $5,000 per every person who has access to the app.

TikTok CEO, Shou Chew, has continued to express his support for Trump, as he was present at the Inauguration ceremony. The fate of the app remains unconfirmed, however users of TikTok have regained hope following the return of services.