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.
Source:
Link
Leave a Reply