TikTok to Launch Separate US App by September Amid Ongoing Ban Threats and Sale Talks

In a major development, TikTok is reportedly preparing to launch a separate app for the US market as it scrambles to comply with American legislation that demands the platform either be sold or face a ban. According to reports, the new US-only TikTok app is set to go live on September 5, and existing users in the United States will be required to switch over in order to continue accessing the platform.

US TikTok Users Must Migrate to New App

Once the new version is released, the current TikTok app will be removed from US app stores and will become non-functional by March 2026, giving users a few months to transition. TikTok is expected to issue multiple in-app alerts urging users to migrate before the older version stops working.

Connection to US Ban and ByteDance Sale

This move appears to be TikTok’s attempt to sidestep the looming threat of a nationwide ban unless its US operations are sold. However, the connection between the new app and the government’s ultimatum remains vague. It’s unclear whether this is a workaround to satisfy legal requirements or part of a broader restructuring plan.

Trump Confirms Sale Talks

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump recently claimed that a “group of very wealthy people” is negotiating to buy TikTok’s US business from ByteDance, the Chinese parent company. Trump has not named any of the involved parties yet but promises to reveal more details later this month. However, any sale would likely require approval from Chinese regulators, casting uncertainty over how and when this deal could close.

What This Means for Users

For now, TikTok’s future in the US is still uncertain. If you're a US-based TikTok user, expect major changes by September, and be ready to download a new version of the app. Whether the platform stays under ByteDance's umbrella or gets sold, the user experience and data policies could be significantly impacted.