Why isn't TikTok appearing in app stores despite Trump's halt on the ban?

LOS ANGELES - TikTok remains in limbo as U.S. users wait for clarity on its availability in app stores. 

Though President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday to pause the federal ban for 75 days, Apple and Google have yet to reinstate the app on their platforms. This leaves users unable to download or update TikTok despite assurances from the administration.

The ongoing situation has left many TikTok fans frustrated, with some turning to extreme measures, such as purchasing secondhand devices with the app already downloaded, listed for as much as $50,000 on eBay. 

Meanwhile, ByteDance, TikTok’s parent company, continues to explore options for divesting its U.S. assets to comply with federal law.

Is TikTok banned or not? 

What we know:

TikTok went offline briefly in the U.S. on Sunday after a federal ban targeting ByteDance-owned apps took effect. The ban requires ByteDance to divest from TikTok’s U.S. operations over national security concerns. 

Some users have turned to creative workarounds to reinstall the app after TikTok went dark over the weekend for those who had previously deleted it from their devices.

Although TikTok resumed service later that day following assurances from President Trump, the app remains absent from Apple and Google app stores.

But some users have turned to creative workarounds to reinstall the app after TikTok went dark over the weekend for those who had previously deleted it from their devices.

TikTok is currently accessible for existing users but cannot be downloaded or updated via app stores. Legal experts suggest that Trump’s executive order temporarily pausing enforcement of the ban does not fully protect companies like Apple and Google from legal risks. 

The federal law upheld by the Supreme Court allows fines of up to $5,000 per user for companies that distribute or host banned apps.

What we don't know:

It is unclear when—or if—Apple and Google will restore TikTok to their app stores. The companies appear to be waiting for stronger legal protections or further clarification from the Trump administration. 

Additionally, ByteDance’s next steps regarding the divestiture of TikTok’s U.S. operations remain uncertain, as no formal buyer has been announced.

What this means for TikTok users

Why you should care:

While users who already have TikTok installed can continue to access the app, they cannot download or update it. This could eventually render the app obsolete as features and security patches become outdated. Some users have expressed frustration, while others are attempting workarounds like using VPNs or changing device settings to regain access.

FILE - Photo illustration of TikTok app logo on a smartphone screen displayed with the American flag (USA).  (Photo by Nicolas Economou/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

TikTok welcomed users back with a message on Sunday, stating, "Thanks for your patience and support. As a result of President Trump's efforts, TikTok is back in the U.S.!" However, the lack of availability on app stores continues to cast doubt on the app’s future.

Will TikTok get shut down? 

What's next:

ByteDance is actively searching for a U.S. buyer, with Trump suggesting that the U.S. government should own a 50% stake in the company’s American operations. 

Billionaire Elon Musk and other investors have reportedly been involved in discussions, but no deal has been finalized. Trump has also floated the possibility of tariffs on China if Beijing does not approve a sale.

The situation leaves TikTok’s future uncertain, with ongoing debates about how to balance national security concerns and user demand for the app.