A looming deadline to ban TikTok in the United States is set to take effect Sunday, leaving millions of users and businesses uncertain about the platform’s future. The law, which requires TikTok to sell to a non-Chinese owner or face removal, was upheld by the Supreme Court on Friday, marking a significant escalation in efforts to address national security concerns tied to the app.

TikTok’s 170 million American users could lose access to a platform that has become a vital space for entertainment, community, and business. Despite the fast-approaching ban, it remains unclear whether the app will voluntarily shut down, if app stores will enforce its removal, or if the incoming Trump administration will take action to delay the measure.

Will TikTok Disappear?

Under the law, app store providers such as Apple and Google face penalties for hosting TikTok after the deadline. This would prevent new downloads while allowing existing users to continue using the app without updates until it becomes unusable. However, reports indicate TikTok might proactively disable access to its U.S. users, redirecting them to a page explaining the ban.

Outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration has stated it will leave enforcement to the incoming Trump administration. Without clear directives on Sunday, app store operators may face uncertainty about compliance.

Why TikTok Is Facing a Ban

The ban stems from concerns that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, could be pressured by the Chinese government to share sensitive U.S. user data. U.S. officials argue that such a scenario poses a potential national security threat, though there is no evidence the platform has been used for espionage.

TikTok has repeatedly denied allegations of improper data handling, and reports suggesting that China-based employees accessed U.S. data have been disputed by the company. The law mandating a sale or ban was signed by President Biden in April 2025.

Trump’s Role in TikTok’s Fate

Incoming President Donald Trump has expressed interest in saving TikTok, a stark reversal from his initial push to ban the platform during his first term. Trump is expected to use his new presidency to negotiate a potential deal for TikTok’s U.S. operations.

TikTok CEO Shou Chew’s attendance at Trump’s inauguration on Monday has fueled speculation that discussions may be underway. While Congress has signaled support for a possible extension to the ban, any delay requires evidence of progress toward a sale, which ByteDance has yet to confirm.

Prospects for a Sale

If TikTok is sold to a non-Chinese owner, access could be restored for U.S. users. Potential buyers include a group led by entrepreneur Frank McCourt, who has submitted a formal bid to acquire TikTok’s U.S. assets. However, China’s refusal to allow the sale of TikTok’s proprietary algorithm complicates any acquisition, as replicating the app’s “For You” feed would be a significant challenge.

Reports also suggest that Chinese officials have considered selling TikTok to Elon Musk, though TikTok has dismissed the rumors as unfounded.

Uncertain Future

Until Sunday’s deadline—and likely beyond—users are left with more questions than answers about TikTok’s future. The ban’s implications for social media competition, data privacy, and U.S.-China relations underscore the complexity of the situation.