TikTok Still Missing From Apple and Google App Stores One Week After US Ban: Legal Risks Clash With Trump’s Executive Order

TikTok Ban Fallout: App Store Removal Persists Amid Legal Uncertainty and Political Tensions
As of January 25, 2025, TikTok remains absent from Apple’s App Store and Google Play nearly a week after its removal under the U.S. Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. The law, which took effect on January 19, forced both tech giants to delist TikTok and other ByteDance-owned apps like Lemon8 and Marvel Snap. While partial service access has been restored, users still cannot download or update the app through official channels, and Apple and Google risk billions in fines for noncompliance.

Legal Perils vs. Political Promises

Under the law, companies distributing banned apps face penalties of $5,000 per user daily—a potential liability reaching hundreds of billions. Former President Donald Trump’s executive order pledging not to enforce the ban has created confusion, but legal experts warn his directive lacks binding authority. Neither Apple nor Google has commented on reinstating TikTok, signaling their preference to prioritize legal compliance over political assurances.

User Impact and Workarounds

• Existing Users: Pre-downloaded TikTok apps still function but cannot receive updates or fixes for bugs or security vulnerabilities.
• New Users: Installation now requires workarounds like purchasing secondhand devices or accessing TikTok’s mobile browser version, which lacks full app features.
• Developer Updates: Marvel Snap’s studio, Second Dinner, announced plans to return to app stores “as early as next week,” though specifics remain unclear. Co-founder Ben Brode hinted on Bluesky that updates would resume if the game reappears.

Political Maneuvering and Future Uncertainty

Trump’s push to extend TikTok’s divestment deadline faces hurdles, as ByteDance refuses to sell its U.S. operations. Republican lawmakers warn companies to “follow the law,” threatening shareholder lawsuits and state-level penalties. Analysts suggest Apple and Google’s silence reflects corporate caution amid legal gray areas and shifting political winds.

What’s Next?

TikTok’s return hinges on resolving clashes between legislative mandates and political intervention. Without ironclad legal protections, app stores are likely to keep TikTok delisted. Users and businesses should brace for prolonged disruption as courts and Congress weigh in.