TikTok resumes US service after Trump promises to "Save It"

TikTok restored access to its 170 million US users on Sunday following comments by President-elect Donald Trump, who pledged to revive the app when he takes office on Monday.

"Frankly, we have no choice. We have to save it," Trump said at a rally ahead of his inauguration, adding that his administration would seek a joint venture to secure TikTok’s operations in the US as reported by Reuters. 

Hours before the rally, TikTok confirmed the restoration of some services in a message to its users: "As a result of President Trump's efforts, TikTok is back in the US."

While the app itself began coming back online with limited functionality for some users, its website became accessible earlier on Sunday. However, the TikTok app remained unavailable for download in US app stores as of late Sunday.

TikTok ban and legal uncertainty

The Supreme Court upheld a law on Friday requiring TikTok's parent company, ByteDance, to divest its US operations or face a ban. The law officially went into effect on Sunday after ByteDance failed to comply.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump said, "I'm asking companies not to let TikTok stay dark! I will issue an executive order on Monday to extend the time before the law's prohibitions take effect, so we can make a deal to protect our national security."

It remains unclear what legal authority Trump has to delay enforcement of a law already in effect. However, it is expected that his administration may choose not to enforce the ban if an executive order is issued.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew is anticipated to attend Trump's inauguration on Monday, signaling potential discussions between the incoming administration and the Chinese-owned platform.

The restoration of TikTok services highlights Trump's broader intention to engage with the app's future in the US, despite ongoing questions about its legal and national security implications.