The TikTok Turnaround: The Uncertain Future of the Youth's Favorite App

Article by Marcus Castillo | Art by Jillian Hartshorne

Over the past few years, TikTok has become not solely another social media app but a global cultural phenomenon, especially among the youth. With an endless amount of videos and a highly addictive algorithm, TikTok quickly amassed over a billion users and changed what people see as entertainment forever. However, in the United States, TikTok’s fate is undecided, as the app has stumbled upon the center of a larger, ongoing debate over national security, privacy, and freedom. 

TikTok is controversial because it is owned by the Chinese company ByteDance. In the US, lawmakers are concerned that TikTok’s vast collection of user data has the potential to be accessed and exploited by the Chinese government, breaching national security. These fears are exacerbated by escalating tensions between the US and China, making TikTok a political spectacle. 

Only a few days ago, at the time of writing this article, TikTok faced an outright ban, temporarily cutting access for nearly 170 million Americans. Proponents of the ban argue that protecting national security comes before entertainment and convenience, citing fears of data surveillance and foreign influence. Conversely, the ban is also criticized for violating free speech, as content creators, businesses, and everyday people rely on TikTok as an irreplaceable tool for reaching an audience. 

Surprisingly, President Donald Trump proposed a compromise that would allow the app to return once more. His plan being to establish a joint venture in which a US-based entity would own 50% of the app, done to ensure greater control of its operations and treatment of data (Al Jazeera). This is designed to act as a middle ground, preserving TikTok’s cultural and economic significance while protecting its users. 

China’s willingness in considering this deal is also highly significant. In the past, they opposed any chances that could potentially weaken ByteDance’s control over TikTok. However, the US market was a key revenue stream; thus, its removal prompted Chinese officials to negotiate a more pragmatic approach (Wall Street Journal).

Beyond geopolitics, the TikTok case raises important questions about the role of social media in modern society. For millions of users, the platform is more than just an app—it’s a space for creativity, connection, and cultural expression. How can governments address legitimate security concerns without stifling these qualities? And what responsibilities do tech companies have when operating on a global scale?

For now, TikTok’s return to the U.S. represents a temporary resolution, but its future remains uncertain. The case has set the stage for important conversations about the regulation of international tech platforms and the balance between security and innovation. As technology continues to transcend borders, finding common ground will be crucial to navigating these challenges.

Works Cited

“Donald Trump Declares 'TikTok is Back' in 'Joint Venture with US' Hours After App Was Shut Down for 170 Million Users.” The Sun, 20 Jan. 2025, www.thesun.ie.

“From Backing a Ban to Being Hailed as a Savior: Inside Trump's TikTok Shift.” Al Jazeera, 20 Jan. 2025, www.aljazeera.com.

“China Signals It Is Open to a Deal Keeping TikTok in U.S.” Wall Street Journal, 19 Jan. 2025, www.wsj.com.