TikTok Developing New App Version Ahead of Potential US Sale

TikTok is creating a new version of its app for users in the United States as it prepares for a possible sale to a group of investors, according to a report by The Information.

The app is expected to launch in US app stores on Sept. 5. Users will eventually need to download the new version to continue using the service, though the current app will remain functional until March 2026. The timeline, however, may change.

Credit: THE WHITE HOUSE

The development follows US President Donald Trump's statement on Friday that he will begin discussions with China on Monday or Tuesday regarding a potential TikTok deal. Trump said the United States “pretty much” has a deal on the sale of the short-video platform.

Last month, Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance, TikTok’s China-based parent company, to divest its US assets to Sept. 17.

A previous plan to spin off TikTok’s US operations into a new, US-based company owned and operated by American investors was paused after China signalled disapproval, following Trump’s announcement of steep tariffs on Chinese goods.

Trump added that the United States will likely need China’s approval to finalise any deal.

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• TikTok plans to launch a new US app version on Sept. 5

• Existing app will work until March 2026, but users must switch eventually

• Trump to begin talks with China on TikTok deal early this week

Source: SCMP