Over the past few days, TikTok users in the U.S. have faced a rollercoaster of emotions as the popular app unexpectedly went offline before being restored. Many content creators, influencers, and small business owners who rely on TikTok for their income are now left in limbo, uncertain about the platform’s future. This sudden disruption has raised concerns about the impact of the ban and potential changes to the app’s ownership.
TikTok Ban: What Happened?
On Saturday, TikTok users in the U.S. were surprised to find the app unavailable. A message appeared, stating that a law banning TikTok had been enacted. While users were aware that the ban was scheduled to take effect, many expected it to happen on Sunday, not Saturday.
However, by Sunday, the app was back online. TikTok issued a statement explaining that President-elect Donald Trump had reassured service providers that they would not face penalties for keeping the app accessible. This allowed TikTok to restore services for its 170 million U.S. users and over 7 million businesses that rely on the platform.
Why Is TikTok Facing a Ban?
The uncertainty surrounding TikTok stems from a law signed by President Joe Biden in April. According to the law, TikTok will be banned in the U.S. unless its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, sells it to a non-Chinese buyer. President Trump announced plans to issue an executive order on Monday to extend the time before the ban officially takes effect, but this only provides temporary relief.
How Content Creators Are Coping
Many TikTok creators had already begun preparing for the worst, believing they would permanently lose access to the app after January 19.
The Mars Family’s TikTok Journey
San Ramon residents Mayra and Aaron Spiteri, known as The Mars Family on TikTok, have built a strong following by sharing their daily adventures. Mayra originally started their TikTok account during the pandemic, posting fun videos about her husband learning Spanish. Over time, the platform became a significant source of income for them.
Aaron, an electrician, gained business opportunities through TikTok, with potential clients reaching out after seeing his family’s engaging content. “People told me, ‘I usually wouldn’t try someone new, but we feel like we know you and trust you through your videos,'” he shared.
Fearing the ban, the couple posted farewell videos and encouraged followers to connect with them on other platforms. When TikTok unexpectedly went offline on Saturday, they thought it was gone for good. But when it was restored on Sunday, they were both relieved and frustrated.
Aaron expressed concerns about the ongoing uncertainty. “I would like to know if it’s staying or going. We’ve been stuck in limbo for months,” he said.
Paulina Hoong’s Business Concerns
Paulina Hoong, who runs Menmin Made, a small business specializing in Asian-American-inspired apparel and home goods, also worries about TikTok’s future.
About 20% of her revenue comes from TikTok Shop, and the platform has helped her connect with customers worldwide. “I’ve learned so much about other cultures and myself through TikTok,” she said.
Seeing the app disappear on Saturday was a shocking experience for her. “I spent every day on this app since 2020, and it was suddenly gone,” she recalled.
While she felt relieved when TikTok was restored, Paulina remains anxious. If TikTok is eventually banned or its ownership changes, it could drastically affect how small businesses operate. She is also concerned about how social media policies might shift under the Trump administration, potentially affecting free speech online.
What’s Next for TikTok in the U.S.?
Even though TikTok has been restored, the legal battle is far from over. ByteDance still has to sell TikTok to a non-Chinese company within the extended deadline. If a sale does not happen, TikTok could once again face a shutdown in the U.S.
In its recent statement, TikTok reassured users that it is working with the U.S. government to find a long-term solution that allows it to continue operating in the country. However, until a final decision is made, content creators and businesses remain on edge, trying to figure out their next steps.
The situation highlights the deep impact of social media on business, culture, and personal expression. Whether TikTok stays or goes, its uncertain future is already pushing influencers and business owners to explore other platforms, ensuring they don’t lose their audience and income streams.
