Apple says it's following the law by removing TikTok from the App Store

Apple has announced the removal of TikTok and other ByteDance apps from its App Store in the United States, citing compliance with the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. This decision follows a failed appeal by TikTok to the Supreme Court and comes as the Biden administration indicated that enforcement of the law would be left to the next administration. Effective January 19, 2025, apps such as TikTok, CapCut, and Marvel Snap will no longer be available for download or updates in the U.S. Users who already have these apps installed will not lose access, but they will be unable to redownload or restore them on new devices, nor will they be able to make in-app purchases. Visitors from countries where these apps are still available will also face restrictions while in the U.S. Apple has provided a list of affected apps, including TikTok Studio and Lemon8. The company emphasized its obligation to adhere to local laws, while TikTok has sought clarification on potential legal repercussions for app providers that do not comply with the law. As of now, both Apple and Google appear to be following the same legal guidelines.

- Apple is removing TikTok and other ByteDance apps from the U.S. App Store due to legal compliance.

- The ban is effective from January 19, 2025, following a failed Supreme Court appeal by TikTok.

- Users with existing apps will retain access but cannot redownload or make purchases.

- The Biden administration has deferred enforcement of the law to the next administration.

- Apple has listed several affected apps, including TikTok, CapCut, and Marvel Snap.