The future of TikTok in the United States has never been more uncertain. The popular short video application, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, facesincreasing pressurefrom the American government. The threat of an outright ban now looms over the social network, and the implications could be far-reaching for millions of users.
It all started last March, when the House of Representatives passed abill to block TikTokand other social media services owned by Chinese companies.The text, entitled “Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act”, was approved by alarge majority of 325 votes to 65. The Senate quickly followed suit, and President Biden signed the law in April.
TikTok does not intend to give up without a fight
The company had announced its intention to challenge this law which it considers “unconstitutional”. Its CEO, Shou Zi Chew, said in a video that the facts and the Constitution are on our side, and we expect to prevail again. However, the first signs are not encouraging for the social network.
Rejection of the request
Major turning point this week, three judges of the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuitrejected TikTok's request.Although the company is expected to appeal to the Supreme Court, there is no guarantee that the Supreme Court will agree to hear the case, let alone rule in TikTok's favor.
Time is running out for the Chinese company! Theretransfer period will end on January 19, one day before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
A dangerous addiction for young people
Beyond the political and economic issues, this case highlights the risks linked to the excessive use of TikTok, particularly among adolescents. Internal documents reveal thatonly 35 minutes is enoughto create a real dependence.
The application's ultra-personalized algorithm is designed to capture attention and keep it as long as possible, with alarming consequences on the development of young people.
Faced with these revelations, ByteDance will have to consider concrete solutions to protect its users. Because if the company escapes the ban in the United States,it will not escape the DMA in Europe. Recognized as a “gatekeeper”, TikTok must urgently comply with the rules of the digital single market, under penalty of heavy financial sanctions,or even a threat of banishmentlike in the United States.
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By : Keleops AG
