The potential retirement of TikTok: More about the ban

By Ashley Waters 

News Reporter 

SAN MARCOS — The U.S. ban on TikTok has affected millions, sparking debates over national security, free speech and the platform’s impact on creators and businesses.

On Jan. 18, around 10:30 p.m., TikTok went offline across the United States after the Supreme Court upheld a national ban. The decision, citing national security concerns related to TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, left many users and creators adjusting to the change.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order delaying the full enforcement of the ban for 75 days. If ByteDance does not sell TikTok to a U.S.-based company within that time, the app could face a permanent ban. While the app was restored about 10 hours later for users who had it already downloaded, new downloads remain impossible, as TikTok is no longer available in app stores.

The ban has led to complaints from users who argue it infringes on their First Amendment right to free speech. According to Reuters.com, TikTok usage has declined by just 4% between May 2024 and Jan. 2025. Meanwhile, alternative platforms such as Likee, Clapper and Flip have gained popularity, collectively seeing 453,000 downloads in just two days following the ban.

For some creators, the ban has affected their ability to earn a living. Texas State University senior Stephanie Valdez, who has 14,000 TikTok followers, expressed concern about those who rely on the platform for income.

“I think the ban is particularly impacting small businesses and entrepreneurs who depend on TikTok to promote their businesses or products,” said Valdez. “It’s also affecting content creators who rely on the platform for sponsorships.”

Although Valdez does not rely on TikTok for financial support, she understands how the situation has caused anxiety among creators.

“It’s definitely unsettling for those who rely on TikTok for income or to promote their businesses,” said Valdez.

According to Reuters, some users have reported changes to the app since it was restored, including increased content moderation and fewer livestreams. TikTok has attributed these issues to temporary instability while denying any significant policy changes.

The Supreme Court’s decision regarding TikTok’s removal from ByteDance remains a key factor in the app’s uncertain future. Trump has mentioned potential buyers, including Larry Ellison and Elon Musk, as part of efforts to address national security concerns and trade negotiations with China.

For now, the future of TikTok remains uncertain as legal and political negotiations continue.