New App Launch Plans
TikTok will release a separate application for US users on September 5, sources tell The Information.com. The new app, nicknamed “M2,” aims to house all American operations under one roof. Users will find the current TikTok app in US stores removed on launch day. They then can download M2 to keep scrolling. The company will keep the old app working until March 2026 to give people extra time.
Impact on US Users
The transition affects about 170 million accounts in the United States. When M2 hits the Apple and Google stores, TikTok will prompt users to update. App reviews and downloads will move to the new listing. Anyone who skips this step loses access by early 2026. Many users will see app icon changes and new privacy settings. TikTok plans clear in‑app messages to guide users.
Sale Talks Progress
The drive to build M2 comes as deal talks enter a fast pace. President Trump said on FoxBusiness.com that talks with China could start this week. He added that the US “pretty much” has a deal on buyers. A group led by Oracle and other investors would take over US operations. ByteDance would keep under 20 percent. This deal structure tries to comfort US officials and satisfy Chinese rules.
Divestment Law Background
Congress passed the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act in 2023. President Biden signed it to protect data. Under the law, ByteDance must sell its US arm or face a ban by September 17. Trump first set a January 19 deadline and pushed it back several times. TikTok briefly went offline in the US in January before service returned. Last year, the app earned roughly $16 billion in US ad sales.
Chinese Approval Challenge
China’s green light remains the main stumbling block. Officials worry that any sale could weaken China’s tech control. Talks froze earlier over US tariffs on Chinese goods. Now the two sides must settle a deal that meets both sets of rules. Investors hope Beijing will sign off before September 17. If they delay, TikTok could face removal from US stores again.
Personal Analysis
I see this move as a smart bet by TikTok to protect its network in America. By building M2, the company buys time to seal the deal and keep users happy. It also serves as proof that TikTok can stand on its own if needed. Still, the biggest test lies in diplomacy. If China drags its feet, users might grow tired of the switch and look elsewhere. That could erode TikTok’s lead in short videos. In my view, success hinges on clear guidance for users and a swift green light from Beijing.
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