Background on TikTok and its Relevance
TikTok, a popular short-video social networking app, has been under scrutiny due to its Chinese ownership. The U.S. government, led by President Donald Trump, has expressed concerns over data privacy and national security. As a result, TikTok has been working on various strategies to address these concerns and ensure its continued operation in the U.S.
Recent Developments
According to a report by The Information, TikTok is preparing a new version of its app for U.S. users before the anticipated sale to a group of American investors. This move comes as President Trump stated he would start negotiations with China on a potential deal for TikTok, suggesting there is “more or less” an agreement regarding the app’s sale.
TikTok’s Plan for New App Release
TikTok has reportedly devised a plan to launch the new app in U.S. stores by September 5th, as per The Information’s report. This move aims to ensure compliance with any potential agreement and address U.S. concerns regarding data security.
Timeline of Events
- August 2020: President Trump announces a potential ban on TikTok in the U.S., citing national security concerns.
- August 2020: TikTok is given until September 17th to divest its U.S. operations.
- September 2020: TikTok prepares a new app version for U.S. users ahead of the sale to American investors.
Impact on Users
Once the new app is available, TikTok users will need to download it to continue using the service. The existing app will remain functional until March of the following year, although this timeline could change.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What is TikTok doing? A: TikTok is preparing a new app version for U.S. users before the anticipated sale to American investors.
- Q: Why is TikTok doing this? A: This move aims to address U.S. concerns regarding data security and ensure compliance with any potential agreement.
- Q: When will the new app be available? A: TikTok plans to launch the new app in U.S. stores by September 5th, 2020.
- Q: What will users need to do? A: Users will have to download the new app to continue using TikTok. The existing app will remain functional until March 2021.
