TikTok Developing New App to Avoid US Ban

ByteDance is preparing a special new version of TikTok specifically for the United States. This project is being implemented as a countermeasure against the app’s potential ban in the country.

According to Pravilamag, the new version of TikTok is expected to launch by late summer or early autumn. At the same time, the current TikTok app will be removed from the App Store. Existing users will need to switch to the new app, though the current version will continue working until March 2026.

The new app is currently known by the working name M2. This name is not final and may change before the official release. Legally, TikTok is currently registered under the name M1.

These actions by TikTok are in response to recent legal restrictions in the US. In May 2024, President Joe Biden signed a law requiring TikTok to sell its US operations to a local company or face a ban by January 19, 2025.

On that date, TikTok did indeed cease operations in the US. However, the next day, after a statement from Donald Trump, the app resumed service. On April 4, Trump granted ByteDance an additional 75 days to sell TikTok’s US assets. Otherwise, a complete ban would be enforced.

ByteDance is now seeking a new path to keep TikTok operating in the US. The new M2 app will likely be presented as developed by a different American company, in order to meet US national security requirements.

This workaround strategy may allow TikTok to retain access for millions of users in the US. It’s expected that most core features will remain, and users may not notice significant changes.

The deal to sell TikTok is currently at risk. The main reason is the Chinese government’s refusal to approve the sale due to Trump’s new 34% tariffs. Combined with earlier tariffs, the total could reach 54%.

TikTok’s future now hinges on both political and economic negotiations. This could mark a new phase in the US-China rivalry.

With over 1 billion users globally, TikTok remains one of the most popular social media platforms, including in Uzbekistan. The developments surrounding its ban and new app may impact not only global internet policy but also the geopolitical balance in technology and media.

As a result, platforms like TikTok are entering a new era of legal, technical, and geopolitical realities. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!