Tech Desk 
Jan 19, 2025
Apple has removed TikTok, CapCut, and other ByteDance apps from its App Store in the US. This action follows the new Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act.
However, the law targets apps developed by ByteDance Ltd. and its subsidiaries, such as TikTok, CapCut, and Marvel Snap, and mandates their removal from digital platforms like Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store.
ByteDance apps ban takes effect
Before the law took effect, the Biden administration stated that enforcement would be the responsibility of the next administration. Despite this, the ban went into effect this weekend after TikTok's appeal to the Supreme Court failed.
Apple explained its actions on a support page, stating that it is required to comply with the laws of the jurisdictions where it operates. Therefore, ByteDance apps will no longer be available for download or updates in the US starting January 19, 2025.
Users who already have these apps installed won't have them removed. However, they won't be able to redownload or restore them on new devices, and in-app purchases or subscriptions will not be available.
Visitors to the US from other countries where these apps are still available also won't be able to download or update them while in the US.
TikTok, CapCut, and Marvel Snap are among the most popular apps affected by this ban. These apps have millions of users who will be impacted by this change.
Apple has made it clear that it will follow the law as written, and it seems Google is doing the same. Neither Apple nor Google, nor TikTok have responded to requests for comments from The Verge.
