Apple continues to offer TikTok in its App Store following a 75-day extension on the U.S. ban, as ByteDance negotiates a potential spinoff deal.
Apple has opted to keep TikTok available in its App Store after the U.S. government granted a 75-day extension on the ban of the popular social media app. The extension, authorized by President Donald Trump on April 5, 2025, provides ByteDance additional time to finalize a deal for TikTok’s U.S. operations. Reports indicate a potential spinoff where outside investors could own a majority stake in TikTok’s U.S. business.
Extension grants ByteDance more time for negotiations
Apple’s decision to retain TikTok in its App Store comes after Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the 75-day extension on the U.S. ban. This marks the second time Apple has reinstated the app, having previously done so in February 2025 following similar reassurances. The extension allows ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, more time to negotiate a deal that would address U.S. national security concerns.
Potential spinoff structure emerges
According to sources familiar with the matter, the current proposal involves a spinoff where outside investors would own approximately 50% of TikTok’s U.S. operations, with ByteDance retaining less than 20%. This structure aims to alleviate concerns about Chinese government influence while maintaining TikTok’s operational continuity in the U.S. market.
Continued scrutiny and interested parties
TikTok continues to face scrutiny over its Chinese ownership, with several U.S. companies reportedly interested in acquiring or investing in the platform. Amazon and various private equity groups have shown particular interest, seeing potential in integrating TikTok’s advertising capabilities with retail infrastructure. The ongoing negotiations highlight the complex intersection of technology, national security, and global business interests in the digital age.
