How to Use TikTok in USA the Easy Way: TikTok has dominated headlines recently due to uncertainty surrounding its future in the United States, sparked by ongoing legal disputes with the federal government. Citing national security concerns, the U.S. government pushed for a nationwide ban unless ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, sold the platform to an American-owned business.
The app briefly went offline for a day after the Supreme Court upheld the proposed ban. However, it was restored shortly afterward, thanks to a last-minute intervention by incoming President Donald Trump. On Friday, January 17, 2025, following over two and a half hours of legal arguments, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in favor of enforcing the controversial ban. Just two days later, more than 170 million TikTok users across the country were greeted with a message stating the app was no longer available.
Privacy Alert! Your data is exposed to the websites you visit! The information above can be used to track you, target you for ads, and monitor what you do online. We recommend ExpressVPN — the #1 VPN out of over 350 providers we've tested. It has military-grade encryption and privacy features that will ensure your digital security, plus — it's currently offering 48% off.
Your IP Address: Loading...
Your Location: Loading...
Your Internet Provider: Loading...
Is TikTok Available Again in the US?
Yes, millions of users in the United States can once again access TikTok after President Trump announced plans to issue an executive order temporarily delaying the nationwide ban. This delay is intended to give TikTok and the U.S. government time to negotiate a potential deal that could keep the app running in the country. However, the platform’s future remains uncertain, as the law only permits a one-time 90-day extension under specific conditions.
President Trump can grant the extension if he certifies to Congress that:
- There is a clear plan for divestiture,
- Significant progress has been made toward completing it, and
- Legally binding agreements exist to ensure the transaction can be finalized within the extension period.
Ultimately, the long-term fate of TikTok in the U.S. hinges on whether ByteDance agrees to sell all or part of the company to an American-owned firm. Trump, who has credited TikTok with helping him gain massive support among young voters in the last election, appears inclined to give the app a second chance. I have a warm spot in my heart for TikTok. I won the youth by 34 points, and some say that TikTok had something to do with it,” Trump said.
Still, this reprieve may be short-lived. Tech giants like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon continue to support the Supreme Court’s ruling and have withheld platform support for the app. Without access to official app stores and essential updates, TikTok could soon become unusable for U.S. users—unless a long-term solution is reached.
Best VPNS For Streaming Safely
1. ExpressVPN — Best VPN With the Fastest Speeds for Smooth Streaming
Best Feature
The fastest speeds we tested, ensuring you can stream, browse, game, and torrent without interruptions
Server Network
3,000 servers in 105 countries give you fast worldwide connections
Simultaneous Device Connections
Up to 8, so you can protect your compatible devices under one subscription
Works With
Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, DAZN, and more
2. NordVPN — Best VPN With the Fastest Speeds for Smooth Streaming
Best Feature
High security features and fast speeds for a reliable connection
Server Network
5,400 servers in 60 countries for improved accessibility and connection speeds
Simultaneous Device Connections
Up to 6 devices, suitable for protecting multiple devices simultaneously
Works With
Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, BBC iPlayer, (HBO) Max, Hulu, Vudu, DAZN, and more
How to Access and Use TikTok in the US After the Ban
TikTok is currently accessible again in the U.S., but the app is no longer available on Apple’s App Store or the Google Play Store due to the recent legal and political developments. If you already have the app installed, you can continue using it without issue. However, if you’ve uninstalled TikTok or recently purchased a new device, getting it back will take a few extra steps.
Here’s how you can still use TikTok in the United States, even while the ban is in effect:
1. Use a Reliable VPN
A powerful VPN can help you bypass regional restrictions. We recommend using ExpressVPN due to its fast international servers, high-level security, and proven performance with streaming and apps.
2. Install the VPN App on Your Device
Download your chosen VPN from the App Store or Google Play (while it’s still available). Once installed, open the app, log in, and connect to a server in a country where TikTok remains accessible—such as the UK, Canada, or Mexico.
3. Create a New App Store Account
To access international app stores, you may need to register a new Apple ID or Google account set to the region where TikTok is not banned. Use an email address that hasn’t been used previously and select a foreign region during setup.
4. Download TikTok
With your VPN active and the new app store account in place, search for and download TikTok. Make sure the VPN remains connected throughout the process.
5. Sign Up for a New TikTok Account (Optional)
Your old account linked to a U.S. phone number or email may be restricted. For smoother access, create a new TikTok account using your VPN-connected location. Alternatively, you can explore TikTok as a guest without logging in. Always keep the VPN active while using TikTok to avoid regional restrictions and possible errors.
These steps provide a temporary solution until TikTok’s long-term status in the U.S. is resolved. There’s still hope that a deal may be struck, allowing the app to return to official app stores and receive regular updates.In the meantime, this workaround lets you continue enjoying TikTok’s viral videos, trends, and entertainment while staying ahead of restrictions. Stay tuned for updates as the situation evolves.
Best VPN deals this week:
How the Supreme Court Ruling Affects TikTok in the U.S.
As of January 19, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a nationwide ban on TikTok, effectively making the app illegal in the country. This decision had immediate consequences for both creators and users, as the platform briefly went offline across the U.S. Although TikTok has since been restored for many users—thanks to a temporary agreement between President-elect Donald Trump and TikTok’s leadership—the app’s future in the U.S. remains uncertain. The ban was only paused temporarily, not revoked, and the legal landscape remains hostile.
One major concern is the position of tech giants like Apple and Google, whose app stores are legally bound to comply with the ruling. As a result:
- TikTok has been removed from both the App Store and Google Play in the U.S.
- New users can’t download the app.
- Existing users can still use it but cannot receive updates or security patches.
This leaves only those who already had TikTok installed on their devices able to access its features—at least for now.
Companies that continue to host, support, or service TikTok face legal threats from U.S. authorities. Senator Tom Cotton reinforced this warning in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating that firms could be exposed to massive liabilities under federal and state laws if they facilitate TikTok’s operations in defiance of the ban.
The Path Forward for TikTok
In a brief moment of optimism, TikTok was brought back online just one day after the ban took effect. In a statement posted to X, TikTok expressed appreciation for President Trump’s role in temporarily resolving the standoff, noting that his intervention gave service providers “necessary clarity and assurance” to resume operations for more than 170 million American users. Despite ByteDance’s reluctance to divest its U.S. TikTok operations, the company has indicated it is open to negotiating a long-term solution with the Trump administration. We will work with President Trump on a long-term solution that keeps TikTok in the United States,” TikTok said in a public statement.
President Trump echoed this sentiment, urging tech companies not to shut TikTok out and reaffirming his intent to facilitate a deal that benefits all parties. Through a post on Truth Social, Trump stated: Without U.S. approval, there is no TikTok—but I will issue an executive order to extend the timeline before the law’s restrictions take effect.” For now, TikTok remains accessible, but it’s clear that its survival in the U.S. hinges on a major decision: a full or partial sale to an American company. Without that, app store removals and the lack of future updates could make the app unsustainable—even for current users.
Is ByteDance Ready to Part Ways with TikTok?
Rumors have been swirling about potential buyers stepping in to acquire TikTok’s U.S. operations, but ByteDance hasn’t confirmed any plans to sell. Some media reports speculated that Elon Musk might broker a deal, though TikTok quickly dismissed those claims as “pure fiction.” Meanwhile, other notable names have publicly expressed interest in taking over the app.
Popular YouTuber and entrepreneur MrBeast posted on X (formerly Twitter), “Okay, fine, I’ll buy TikTok so it doesn’t get banned,” after claiming to have met with a group of billionaires. Other interested parties reportedly include Amazon, Kevin O’Leary, Frank McCourt, former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick, Rumble, and Perplexity AI. Despite all the buzz, there has been no official confirmation from TikTok or ByteDance regarding any ongoing sale negotiations. For now, these potential deals remain speculative.
RedNote: The New Home for TikTok Refugees?
In the wake of TikTok’s uncertain future in the U.S., many users have begun migrating to a Chinese lifestyle app called RedNote (also known as Xiaohongshu). Following TikTok’s temporary shutdown, RedNote surged in popularity, gaining over 700,000 new users in a single day and becoming the most downloaded app in the U.S. App Store. Founded in 2013, RedNote is primarily a photo and video-sharing platform with a heavy emphasis on lifestyle content, travel, food, fashion, and e-commerce. Its user base is largely based in Mandarin-speaking regions such as China and Taiwan.
While it shares some similarities with TikTok—like endless scrollable content—RedNote is more focused on shopping discovery and lifestyle sharing. However, its content is predominantly in Mandarin, creating a language barrier for many American users. Additionally, much of the cultural context may feel foreign to U.S. audiences.
Experts caution that the surge in RedNote’s U.S. user base could trigger similar concerns that led to TikTok’s legal troubles. With rising scrutiny over data privacy, surveillance, and foreign influence, RedNote may soon face the same national security questions. The growing interest in non-Western apps like RedNote and TikTok also intensifies competition with American platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook—possibly prompting stricter U.S. regulations on foreign-owned digital platforms in the near future.
Best VPNs for Streaming — Final Score:
Rank
Provider
Overall Score
Best Deal
9.8
★★★★★
save 84%
VISIT WEBSITE >
9.6
★★★★★
save 83%
VISIT WEBSITE >
9.4
★★★★★
save 84%
VISIT WEBSITE >
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is interested in buying TikTok’s US operations?
Several high-profile individuals and companies have shown interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. division. These include entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary, former Activision CEO Bobby Kotick, Amazon, Rumble, Perplexity AI, and even YouTube star MrBeast. However, ByteDance has not confirmed any negotiations or intentions to sell.
Did Elon Musk try to buy TikTok?
While there have been media speculations suggesting Elon Musk might step in to negotiate a deal for TikTok, the company has officially dismissed these claims as “pure fiction.” There is no verified information confirming Musk’s involvement.
What is RedNote, and why are users switching to it?
RedNote, also known as Xiaohongshu, is a Chinese lifestyle and e-commerce app similar to Instagram. After TikTok’s temporary shutdown in the U.S., many users turned to RedNote as an alternative, causing a surge in downloads. It offers content related to travel, shopping, and personal experiences but is primarily in Mandarin.
Is RedNote available in English?
Currently, RedNote is predominantly available in Mandarin, which can be a barrier for U.S. users. While it’s gaining popularity as an alternative to TikTok, its content and language may not cater to a global English-speaking audience.
Could RedNote face a U.S. ban like TikTok?
Experts suggest that RedNote may encounter similar scrutiny to TikTok due to concerns over data privacy, national security, and foreign ownership. As more U.S. users engage with Chinese apps, the government may impose stricter regulations on platforms like RedNote.
Will ByteDance eventually sell TikTok?
As of now, ByteDance has not agreed to divest TikTok’s U.S. operations. Despite mounting legal pressure and interest from potential buyers, the company has only stated that it is working with President Trump on a long-term solution. Any sale remains speculative at this point.