The app’s parent company, ByteDance, is reportedly preparing to launch a new version of TikTok in the United States on Sept. 5, just days ahead of a government deadline that could force it to sell its American operations or face a ban.
The details, first reported by The Information, suggest the current TikTok app could go offline in early 2026. Users would need to switch to the new app to keep using the platform.
The move comes as the company navigates pressure from the U.S. government over national security concerns tied to ByteDance’s China-based ownership. Lawmakers have argued that the Chinese government could gain access to American user data through TikTok, claims the company has consistently denied.
This isn’t the first time TikTok has faced a shutdown. In April, President Trump extended ByteDance’s deadline to divest its U.S. business, marking another delay in a process that began under President Biden in 2024.
The law behind the order targets foreign-owned apps operating in sensitive sectors, including social media. ByteDance has said any sale would still need approval from Chinese regulators.
Several companies are reportedly in the mix as potential buyers. Oracle, Amazon, and a group led by former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt—with “Shark Tank” investor Kevin O’Leary also involved—have been mentioned as bidders. Another tech firm, Perplexity AI, said it would be interested in acquiring and rebuilding TikTok’s algorithm. Analysts believe this part of the app, which powers its content recommendations, is unlikely to be included in any sale.
Ray Wang, a tech analyst with Constellation Research, said a transition period would likely follow any rebrand or sale. “The question is how will data be migrated?” he told the Los Angeles Times. “And I’m sure they will have a solution for that.”
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For now, TikTok remains active, with more than 170 million users in the U.S. Still, many creators are preparing for potential changes. Some have already started expanding to other platforms in case access to TikTok becomes restricted.
Trump, who once supported banning the app during his first term, has since shifted his stance.
In recent months, he’s met with TikTok executives, posted about his following on the platform, and encouraged voters who want to keep TikTok to support his campaign.
The next few weeks will be critical. If a deal is reached, TikTok could continue under new ownership.
If not, American users may need to download something new—and fast.
