Tag: TikTok

  • Free Roblox Game Reaches 5 Million Concurrent Players, Beats Steam

    Free Roblox Game Reaches 5 Million Concurrent Players, Beats Steam

    Key Takeaways

    1. Record Popularity: Grow A Garden became the most popular game on Roblox, reaching over 5 million concurrent players, far surpassing popular games on Steam like Counter-Strike 2.

    2. Teen Creator: The game was created by a teenager in just three days, highlighting the potential for individual creators to achieve massive success.

    3. Gameplay Appeal: Players enjoy the simple mechanics of planting and harvesting crops, along with features like co-op mode and pet companions, contributing to its popularity.

    4. Mixed Reviews: While many players appreciate the game’s relaxing nature and progression system, some criticize its repetitiveness and question its long-term popularity.

    5. Viral Success: The game’s rise is attributed to viral trends on TikTok and Roblox’s accessibility, proving that simple ideas can become major hits in the gaming world.

    What started as a simple farming game has turned into the most popular title on Roblox, now surpassing any game on Steam. Grow A Garden debuted on March 25, 2025, and according to RoMonitorStats, it hit an incredible peak of more than 5 million players online at the same time on May 17. For some perspective: even Counter-Strike 2 never managed to exceed 1.8 million concurrent players, as reported by SteamDB, and Dota 2 is even further behind.

    A Teen’s Vision

    Interestingly, Grow A Garden was initially a solo endeavor by a teenager and was created in just three days. Its swift rise in popularity is likely fueled by viral success on TikTok and the easy access that Roblox offers. In less than two months, the game has accumulated over 2.1 billion visits, with upwards of 1.17 million players marking it as a favorite. It also boasts an impressive approval rating, with 93.6% positive feedback.

    Gameplay Mechanics

    The gameplay is delightfully straightforward: players plant flowers and veggies, harvest them, and sell their crops—the rarer the plant, the higher the profit. In addition to the usual cycle of collecting and upgrading, the game distinguishes itself with its relaxed co-op mode, the ability to grow pet companions, and its charmingly simple visuals.

    Mixed Reactions

    Despite the massive excitement, opinions are divided. On Reddit, many players commend the game’s soothing nature, which, when paired with an engaging progression system and the fact that plants can grow even when offline, is viewed as a major reason for its success. Critics, nonetheless, highlight its repetitive aspects, raise concerns regarding the potential use of bots, and are baffled by the popularity of a title that is only slightly more complex than a basic Tycoon game. Some compare it to a simplified version of Stardew Valley, while others believe the buzz will fade quickly. Nevertheless, Grow A Garden demonstrates that even the most basic ideas can become viral sensations on Roblox. Whether it can maintain its lead over time is still uncertain.

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  • More Americans Support TikTok as Sale Deadline Nears

    More Americans Support TikTok as Sale Deadline Nears

    Key Takeaways

    1. Public sentiment towards a potential TikTok ban in the US has shifted, with only 34% supporting the ban, down from 50% in 2023.
    2. Opposition to the ban has risen to 32%, compared to 22% two years ago.
    3. Support for the ban among Republican and Republican-leaning individuals has dropped from 60% to 30%.
    4. Only 12% of TikTok users support the ban, while 45% of non-users do.
    5. The perception of TikTok as a national security threat has decreased from 59% to 49%.

    The future of TikTok in the United States has been unclear for some time, with a deadline for a potential sale looming in the coming weeks. Despite the ongoing uncertainty, public sentiment appears to have shifted regarding the app’s potential ban, according to a new study. As of March 2025, more Americans are now against the ban compared to two years prior. The research also indicated that a larger number of Republican and Republican-leaning individuals now support dropping the TikTok ban.

    Study Insights

    This study, carried out by Pew Research Center, surveyed over 5,000 adults in the US from February 24 to March 5. It revealed that only 34% of those surveyed backed the TikTok ban, a significant drop from 50% in 2023, when a similar survey was held. The findings also highlighted that opposition to the ban has risen, with 32% now against it, up from 22% two years ago. In 2023, 60% of Republican and Republican-leaning respondents were in favor of the ban, but that figure has now fallen to 30%. Nevertheless, Republicans still exhibit a higher tendency to support the ban compared to Democrats, the research indicated.

    User Perspectives

    Among TikTok users, only 12% supported the ban, whereas 45% of non-users were in favor of it. Additionally, the percentage of Americans considering TikTok a national security threat has declined from 59% to 49%.

    As the deadline for TikTok’s sale approaches in less than two weeks, ByteDance has been requested to divest the app to an American firm by April 5 to keep operating in the US. However, the Chinese company appears uninterested in pursuing that sale. Historically, companies like Microsoft, Perplexity AI, and Oracle have expressed interest in acquiring TikTok.

    In conclusion, the findings from Pew Research Center highlight a significant shift in public opinion regarding TikTok’s future in the US, as well as the ongoing uncertainty surrounding its ownership.

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  • Trump Signs Executive Order Pausing TikTok Ban Enforcement

    Trump Signs Executive Order Pausing TikTok Ban Enforcement

    On the day he was inaugurated, President Trump signed several Executive Orders. One of these orders puts a temporary hold on enforcing the TikTok ban for a duration of 75 days.

    New Legislation to Protect Data

    The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act was passed with bipartisan support in Congress. Its purpose is to safeguard the personal information of U.S. citizens from being collected by ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, and potentially misused by the Chinese government, which could pose a threat to American security.

    Instructions for Law Enforcement

    During this 75-day period, the US Attorney General has been directed not to enforce the Act. The Department of Justice is barred from taking any measures against entities for not complying with the Act. This includes actions related to distributing or maintaining foreign adversary-controlled applications as defined by the law.

    No Penalties for Violators

    Entities that violate the Act during this time frame are also shielded from penalties. Following this guidance, even after the specified period ends, the Department of Justice will refrain from enforcing the Act or imposing penalties on any entity for actions taken during the designated period or before the signing of this order, particularly from January 19, 2025, until the order was signed.

    As for what President Trump might do beyond the 75 days to protect TikTok, it remains uncertain since any changes to federal laws typically require congressional action. Meanwhile, access to the TikTok app and its services might still be restricted or inconsistent due to compliance with the law by various companies, like the Google Play store.

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  • Instagram Launches Edits: A Creative CapCut Competitor

    Instagram Launches Edits: A Creative CapCut Competitor

    Instagram has introduced a fresh video editing application called Edits, aimed at content makers during uncertain times for TikTok. This announcement was made by Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, as TikTok deals with various issues, such as a temporary ban in the US on its CapCut app, showing weaknesses that competitors like Instagram are ready to take advantage of.

    Features of Edits for Creators

    Set to launch in March 2025, Edits offers a comprehensive range of creative tools designed to improve video production. The app includes a special tab for creative ideas and a section to keep track of inspirations. It has a high-quality camera that can shoot in FHD or 2K resolution at a maximum of 60 fps, along with sophisticated editing features like green screens, overlays, and AI effects. Unlike many competing apps, it does not place watermarks on finished videos, making it perfect for creators who wish to share content on various platforms.

    Integration with Instagram

    The app is designed to work smoothly with Instagram, providing creators with live feedback on metrics such as engagement, skip rates, and audience interests. This information allows creators to adjust their strategies for enhanced visibility and greater impact.

    Edits also incorporates AI features, including automatic captions that can be customized, voice enhancement to lessen background noise, and tools for animating images. Additionally, the app allows creators to collaborate by sharing video drafts with friends or partners, which boosts its functionality for teamwork and community involvement.

    Timing of the Launch

    The timing of the launch of Edits is significant. With TikTok undergoing regulatory challenges and CapCut’s brief suspension, Instagram is strategically positioned to attract creators looking for different tools for content creation.

    Furthermore, the app enhances Instagram’s current Reels feature, which has recently increased its video length limit to three minutes, providing creators with greater storytelling options.

    Edits is now available for pre-order on the iOS App Store, with an Android version anticipated shortly. As the competition in the short-form video arena heats up, Instagram’s new app could reinforce its status as a key platform for creators globally.

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  • TikTok Returns to the US: Brand Thanks Trump for App Revival

    TikTok Returns to the US: Brand Thanks Trump for App Revival

    Just a day ago, TikTok was facing a ban in the United States, which would have affected over 170 million users. However, within 24 hours, this restriction was lifted. The company announced the news on X (previously known as Twitter) and expressed their appreciation to US President Donald Trump.

    TikTok’s Services Restored in the US

    In a tweet, TikTok, the popular social media platform, released an official statement thanking President Trump for his role in allowing the app to continue serving its 170 million American users. The government provided clarity and assured TikTok that there would be no penalties for operating in the country. This decision also benefits more than 7 million small businesses that rely on the platform to reach customers.

    TikTok emphasized that this represents a “strong stand for the First Amendment and against arbitrary censorship.” They expressed their willingness to collaborate with President Trump to find a long-term solution that secures TikTok’s presence in the United States. For those who might not know, the US Supreme Court had mandated a ban on the app unless it divested by January 19, 2025. This decision was met with backlash from many who argued it infringed on free speech and threatened democratic principles.

    A Lifeline for TikTok

    Donald Trump essentially served as the last chance for the company, and it appears negotiations have favored TikTok. The app resumed its services around 12 PM ET on Sunday, greeting users with a message that said, “Welcome Back!” while acknowledging Trump’s contribution to the restoration of its services. There haven’t been any new updates about ByteDance-related apps such as CapCut and Marvel Snap, so keep an eye out for more information.

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  • TikTok Stops US Operations Due to Federal Ban Impacting 170M Users

    TikTok Stops US Operations Due to Federal Ban Impacting 170M Users

    TikTok has been officially taken offline in the United States, following years of discussions and legal challenges. The federal ban came after Congress approved a law that requires TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its U.S. operations. As a result, the app is no longer available to its 170 million users in America.

    Users Encounter Access Issues

    When users try to access TikTok, they see a message stating: “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the U.S., which means the app is currently inaccessible.” This action has drawn criticism from advocates for free speech, who claim that prohibiting a platform as significant as TikTok goes against the principles of democracy. Pen America called the Supreme Court’s choice to uphold the law a concerning case of government overreach. At the same time, worries about potential data access by the Chinese government continue to be a key reason lawmakers support the ban.

    Possible Solutions Ahead

    The future of TikTok now rests with President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to take office on January 20. Trump has shown openness to negotiations and hinted at a possible 90-day extension that could lead to other solutions. One such solution might be the return of Project Texas, a $2 billion initiative aimed at protecting U.S. user data under the management of American firms like Oracle.

    On the other hand, new proposals are emerging. The start-up Perplexity AI has put forth a plan for a $50 billion merger with TikTok’s U.S. operations, while former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt and others have shown interest as well. However, legal experts warn that federal laws restrict presidential authority, leaving TikTok’s destiny unclear.

    Impact on Social Media Landscape

    As competitors such as Instagram Reels and YouTube Shorts attempt to take advantage of TikTok’s absence, the shutdown of the app in the U.S. could lead to a major change in the social media scene. The focus now shifts to the Trump administration to see if TikTok can make a comeback or if it will face a permanent ban.

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  • US Supreme Court Supports TikTok Ban Decision

    US Supreme Court Supports TikTok Ban Decision

    The US Supreme Court has ruled that TikTok’s request for an emergency injunction to halt its ban in the United States does not breach the First Amendment. As a result, the ban outlined in the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which was enacted in April 2024, will come into force on Sunday, January 19, 2025. This could disrupt services for roughly 170 million TikTok users in the US.

    Key Provisions of the Act

    The Act mandates that TikTok must either sell its US operations to a buyer friendly to American interests, stop all activities in the US, or risk facing a hefty fine of half a trillion dollars. It has been determined that TikTok has unlawfully transmitted data regarding American users to China, posing a significant national security risk as this information can be accessed by the Chinese communist regime. Additionally, Canada has already ordered the shutdown of TikTok’s operations within its borders due to similar security worries.

    Growing Concerns Over Social Media Use

    Furthermore, TikTok, along with other social media platforms, has been identified as detrimental to users who often find themselves addicted to scrolling through endless feeds for hours on end. In light of these issues, Australia has enacted a law that prohibits individuals under the age of 16 from using social media.

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  • TikTok Set to Shut Down in the US This Sunday

    TikTok Set to Shut Down in the US This Sunday

    Currently, TikTok US is valued between $40 billion and $50 billion, but it faces a deadline of less than a week to keep its services running. This situation would leave about 170 million users in search of alternatives like Bluesky or X. In relation to X, there are hopes in China that Elon Musk might take control of TikTok’s US division. If this happens, it’s possible that the two platforms could merge. However, any takeover would require time for regulatory approval, meaning that for now, this is just speculation.

    Plans for Shutdown

    A report from The Information, cited by Reuters, states that “TikTok plans to shut off its app for U.S. users on Sunday, when a federal ban on the social media app could come into effect, unless the Supreme Court moves to block it.” Nevertheless, the law signed by President Biden last year does not enforce this shutdown. It would prevent new downloads from Apple’s or Google’s app stores but would still permit current users to access the app. In the long run, this could lead to a gradual decline in user numbers.

    User Notification Strategy

    In the event of a ban, TikTok has plans to show an in-app notification that will guide users to a webpage with more information on the situation. Additionally, they will offer users a chance to download their account data before they lose access. This approach aims to ease the transition for users if the app is restricted.

    Potential Consequences

    Regardless of the outcome on Sunday, a possible retaliatory ban from China affecting a US company like Micron might lead to negotiations between the involved parties soon. TikTok estimates that one-third of its 170 million US users would stop using the app if the ban lasts for a month, suggesting that there could be a resolution to this matter by mid-February, one way or another.

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  • China Eyes Elon Musk as Potential Buyer for TikTok’s US Future

    China Eyes Elon Musk as Potential Buyer for TikTok’s US Future

    Chinese officials are considering allowing Elon Musk to take control of TikTok’s US operations if the popular short-video app fails to evade an impending ban. While Beijing wishes for ByteDance Ltd. to retain TikTok, they are exploring alternative plans amid ongoing discussions with the incoming Trump administration.

    Urgency of Negotiations

    These discussions have become more pressing after Supreme Court justices suggested they may support new laws requiring ByteDance to either divest or close TikTok’s US branch by January 19. One proposal being considered is merging TikTok US with Musk’s X platform, leveraging TikTok’s vast user base of over 170 million Americans to enhance X’s advertising potential.

    Financial Challenges

    The financial aspect is a significant hurdle, with Bloomberg Intelligence analysts estimating TikTok’s US operations to be worth between $40 billion and $50 billion. How to arrange the deal, secure funding, and obtain approval from regulators remains uncertain, particularly in light of Musk’s previous commitments from his $44 billion Twitter acquisition.

    For the moment, ByteDance is concentrating on its legal challenges, arguing through TikTok’s attorneys that forcing a sale infringes on First Amendment rights. Conversely, President-elect Trump has suggested he may delay the January 19 ban to allow both parties more time to negotiate, highlighting his intention to “save” the platform.

    China’s Influence

    The Chinese government possesses a so-called golden share in a ByteDance subsidiary, granting it substantial influence over key business decisions, including those related to export regulations concerning TikTok’s algorithm. This arrangement guarantees that Beijing remains impactful in any potential sale, particularly regarding TikTok’s distinctive recommendation technology.

    Musk has publicly opposed a TikTok ban, tweeting in April that shutting down the app would contradict fundamental principles like freedom of speech and expression, asserting that it does not represent what America stands for. So far, representatives from Musk, ByteDance, TikTok, and relevant Chinese government entities have remained silent on the matter.

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  • Trump Supports TikTok at First Rally Post-US Elections

    Trump Supports TikTok at First Rally Post-US Elections

    As per a report from Reuters, President-elect Donald Trump has expressed that the US should "start thinking" about keeping TikTok "around for a while." This statement marks the most significant support for the Chinese social media app to date. TikTok is currently struggling due to a new law enacted by the Biden administration that will lead to its ban in the US beginning in January.

    TikTok’s Legal Challenge

    Earlier this month, TikTok’s attempt to challenge a new US law that is set to take effect in January was unsuccessful, as a federal appeals court denied its request to postpone the ban. The platform had sought an emergency injunction for a delay until the Trump administration takes office and the Supreme Court could hear the case.

    Supreme Court’s Decision

    The Supreme Court did agree to hear the case but stated it would not prevent the law from being enforced starting January 19, 2025. This law, known as the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, deems TikTok a risk to National Security. According to this law’s provisions, TikTok must either sell itself to a new owner in the US or face a ban.

    "I think we need to start considering, because, you know, we did go on TikTok, and it was a great response with billions of views, billions and billions of views," Trump said while speaking to the audience at AmericaFest. "They showed me a chart, and it was a record, and it was really beautiful to see, and as I looked at it, I thought, ‘Maybe we should keep this thing around for a little while,’" he further remarked.

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