Well, it’s happened – nothing in Australia, but even Australian users of TikTok who are currently in America are unable to access the TikTok app as the company restricts access just hours ahead of the Congressionally implemented ban on the social media platform.
Users in America – including those who are not Americans, are seeing this message when opening the app:
It’s a strong tactic from TikTok to take matters into their own hands, legitimately complying with the legislation in the absence of a formal extension from the current administration.
TikTok are very clear that they see incoming President Donald Trump as the saviour as the note above, and the more info page outlines.
It’s a mini-break for American TikTok users, as Donald Trump will rejoice in the simple notion of granting the wishes of 170 million Americans, so it seems likely by executive order that TikTok can simply open the flood gates again and let Americans on the platform.
What really is yet to play out is what happens next.
If Trump grants 90 more days, is that 90 days to find a US buyer as he originally hoped in his first term, or is he able to withdraw the ban completely.
The rest of the world watches on, with a giggle.
Trev is a Technology Commentator, Dad, Speaker and Rev Head.
He produces and hosts two popular podcasts, EFTM and Two Blokes Talking Tech. He also appears on over 50 radio stations across Australia weekly, and is the resident Tech Expert on Channel 9’s Today Show each day and appears regularly on A Current Affair.
Father of three, he is often found down in his Man Cave.
