The buzz around the TikTok app getting banned has been the centre of attention among the top happenings in the USA. The social media company, owned by ByteDance, is based out of Beijing, China and is under scrutiny to either sell TikTok or shut down its operations. But there’s no need to panic, here’s a rather simple way to download and use the app on your smartphones after its ban in USA.
(You may also like to read: How to upload Your Tiktok Videos To Red Note With Chinese Subtitles)
Is using TikTok Legal After Ban in US?
As of January 19, 2025, TikTok has ceased operations in the United States due to a law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest its interest in the app or face a nationwide ban. This legislation stems from national security concerns regarding data privacy and potential foreign influence. Although existing users may still access the app temporarily, they will not receive updates or new features, leading to eventual performance issues.
However, users can still find ways to access TikTok through alternative methods such as VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) that can mask their location and allow them to bypass regional restrictions
Steps to download TikTok on your Phone
While TikTok is no longer available to install or download on the App Store or Google Play store in the US, you can install and use it by following the steps below:
1. Open this link from Uptown and click on ‘Get the latest version’. Then scroll down to click on Download.
2. Then, click on apk file and install the app.
3. If the app does not work, you can use and install VPNs, such as the Proton VPN app or Surfshark VPN, from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
4. Set the country to Thailand or Korea to be able to use TikTok on your device.
How to Save TikTok Uploads from your Account
While many users are migrating from TikTok to another app, be it Instagram or Rednote, one might be interested in saving their uploads for setting up again. We have covered inn our comprehensive guide on how you can save your uploaded TikToks in three ways.
(You may also like to read: How to upload Your Tiktok Videos To Red Note With Chinese Subtitles)
FAQs
Q. Can I still access my old TikTok videos after the ban?
Yes, if you had previously downloaded TikTok, you can still access your old videos. However, you won’t be able to receive updates or new features.
Q. Will using a VPN guarantee access to TikTok?
While using a VPN can help you bypass geographic restrictions, it may not guarantee smooth functionality as there could be additional measures taken by TikTok to block access from certain IP addresses.
Q. What alternatives are available if I can’t use TikTok?
If you can’t use TikTok, consider exploring other platforms like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, or Snapchat Spotlight for similar short-form video content.
Wrapping Up
In this guide, we explored how to download and use the TikTok app after the ban in the USA. While the app is unavailable to install from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. For more such guides, tech news and AI tools follow GadgetsToUse.
- How to Check Your Region or Country in TikTok
- 3 Ways to Download TikTok Videos Without Watermark on Android and iPhone
- 8 Ways to Fix TikTok Not Running on Windows, Mac, and Mobile
- List of TikTok-Like Chinese Short Video Apps that are NOT Banned in India
You can also follow us for instant tech news at Google News or for tips and tricks, smartphones & gadgets reviews, join the GadgetsToUse Telegram Group, or subscribe to the GadgetsToUse Youtube Channel for the latest review videos.
