Millions of users in the United States found themselves unable to access TikTok following the enforcement of a federal ban on the app. The popular social media platform was taken down from major app stores like those operated by Apple and Google on Saturday evening, shortly before the ban was implemented. Users trying to access TikTok’s app encountered a message stating, “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now,” indicating the app was unavailable due to the new law.

The notification informed users that the ban was rooted in a newly enacted law, and it expressed hope for a solution to restore access to the platform. The message also mentioned President Trump’s intention to collaborate on finding a way to reinstate TikTok once he takes office, urging users to stay connected for updates.

The only actions available to users at that time were to close the app or visit the TikTok website, which displayed a similar message while offering the option to download personal data — a process that TikTok previously indicated could take several days. Before this announcement, TikTok had assured users that the service would be “temporarily unavailable” while they worked to restore access as swiftly as possible, although the duration of the blackout remains uncertain.

In a statement, Apple confirmed that TikTok and other ByteDance applications were no longer available for download in the U.S.; however, users who had the apps installed could still access them. Apple emphasized that it must comply with laws in the regions it serves, warning that app updates and performance could be affected if users tried to restore or redownload the applications.

TikTok’s CEO, Shou Chew, acknowledged President Trump’s commitment to supporting TikTok’s presence in the U.S. and took a stand for free speech against censorship. Chew remarked on the importance of support from a president who appreciates the platform’s ability to facilitate connection and expression, noting its vast viewer engagement.

During an NBC News interview, President Trump discussed the possibility of granting TikTok a 90-day extension to continue operations. If such a decision is made, it might be announced on the day of his inauguration. Chew is expected to have a prime seat at the inauguration ceremony.

Concerns about TikTok have long circulated among Washington lawmakers and officials, who view the app as a potential national security threat due to its ownership by the Chinese firm ByteDance, based in Beijing. The federal law required ByteDance to sever its ties with TikTok by a specific deadline, or face a nationwide service ban. This legislation was part of a significant aid package approved by Congress and swiftly signed into law by President Biden, who has also faced legal action from TikTok claiming violations of the First Amendment.

While defending this law in court, the Biden administration stated its apprehensions about TikTok gathering user data which could allegedly be accessed by the Chinese government under coercive circumstances. Additionally, there are fears that the app’s algorithm could be susceptible to manipulation by Chinese authorities, enabling them to influence content delivery on the platform. Despite these allegations, no public evidence has shown TikTok transferring user data to the Chinese government or altering its algorithm in favor of Chinese interests.

On the recent court ruling, the Supreme Court unanimously determined that the national security risks presented by TikTok’s association with China outweigh concerns regarding free speech, affecting the app’s 170 million users in the U.S.

Following the halting of TikTok’s service, some individuals in China expressed criticism toward the U.S., branding the ban as suppression of internet freedom. A former editor from a state-run media outlet described this situation as a troubling moment in the evolution of online expression.

In light of the court’s decision, administration officials including White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre stated that the transition in leadership would manage the law’s enforcement in relation to TikTok. TikTok had indicated that if government clarity on the matter was not provided, it would be compelled to cease operations.

Despite the administration’s rebuttal of TikTok’s assertive stance, uncertainties remained until the app began to impose restrictions on its users. The enacted law prohibits app stores from offering TikTok and internet providers from delivering services to American users, with potential penalties of $5,000 per user for noncompliance.

Observing the legal framework, experts noted that the law did not explicitly demand TikTok shut down its platform, making it unclear if the company’s service suspension was voluntary or due to the loss of technical support. The company has yet to respond to inquiries regarding its operational plans.

The legislation does allow for a 90-day extension for the sitting president if a sale is in progress, yet no prospective buyers have been revealed, and ByteDance has historically asserted that it will not divest TikTok.

On Saturday, an artificial intelligence firm presented a proposal to ByteDance to merge its operations with TikTok’s U.S. functions. This proposal does not involve purchasing the proprietary algorithm that has contributed to TikTok’s explosive popularity.

Other investors have shown interest in the app as well, with prominent figures indicating substantial offers for acquisition.