Apple issues ‘unprecedented’ response to iPhone users

On By Littum

You now know that TikTok has been banned in the US and that the original expectations that it would simply mean that users could not update the app or download it, the app has gone dark. But a number of notable things have happened as a result, including Apple issuing a support document — unheard of in the case of an app removal.

As seen by Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman in a post on X, Apple has issued a supporting document about TikTok, titles “About the availability of TikTok and ByteDance Ltd. Apps in the United States.

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“Apple issued a support document on the TikTok ban. Never seen one of these before for removing an app. But again, this is all pretty unprecedented. All this for a ban for 48 hours,” Gurman said.

Of course, we don’t know that the ban will only last 48 hours, but Gurman’s post on Sunday, January 19th referred to Donald Trump being inaugurated as president on Monday, January 20th, and he could reverse, or at least delay, the ban enters into force.

Trump has said in the past few hours that he will “most likely” offer TikTok a 90-day reprieve, speaking in an NBC News interview. “The 90-day extension is something that will most likely be done because it’s appropriate. You know, it’s appropriate. We’re going to have to look at it carefully. It’s a very big situation,” Trump said.

And the timing Gurman mentions could apply. “If I decide to do it, I will probably announce it on Monday,” the president-elect continued.

If so, TikTok’s phoenix will rise from the ashes on Monday, January 20, perhaps, and its absence from people’s phones will be a blip, at least for now.

Apple’s support document lists the apps besides TikTok that are affected, such as Marvel Snap, Lemon8 and CapCut. “If you already have these apps installed on your device, they will remain on your device. However, they cannot be re-downloaded if deleted or restored if you move to a new device. In-app purchases and new subscriptions are no longer possible ,” Apple says. It also points out that if you’re visiting the United States, you “will not be able to download, update, or make in-app purchases and new subscriptions to ByteDance Ltd. apps while inside the country of the U.S. or maritime borders.” Full functionality returns when you leave the States.

TikTok knows the administration change is important, saying in a message on the app: “We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok when he takes office. Please stay tuned!”

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