TikTok is Developing a New Version of Its App in Preparation for a Potential U.S. Sale, According to a Report by The Information

 

TikTok is Developing a New Version of Its App in Preparation for a Potential U.S. Sale, According to a Report by The Information

According to reports, TikTok, one of the most well-known social media sites in the world, is developing a new app version especially for the American market. This event occurs as the business prepares for a possible forced sale of its U.S. businesses due to continuous federal regulatory pressure.

The Information cites people familiar with the situation who claim that ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, has started covertly getting ready to sell off its American assets by developing a different codebase for the app's U.S. version. If a sale is required, the intention is to make it easier to transfer ownership to a new American buyer.

Regulatory Pressure Mounts Over National Security Concerns

The action comes after months of legal and political conflict between U.S. politicians and TikTok. President Biden passed legislation in April 2025 that would prohibit TikTok from operating anywhere in the country unless it broke off its relationship with its parent business in China. Citing worries over possible data access by the Chinese government, lawmakers contend that ByteDance's ownership presents national security threats.

TikTok maintains that user data from Americans is kept on US-based servers with stringent access safeguards and has denied any wrongdoing. Nonetheless, ByteDance is under more pressure to find a solution that appeases US regulators without totally eliminating the platform's existence in the nation due to the possibility of a ban.

A New App Built to Smooth the Transition

It is considered a proactive move to develop a fresh version of the software that is adapted to American infrastructure and regulations. The Information claims that this version would function separately from TikTok's global software, making it simpler to transfer to a domestic business without worrying about back-end data sharing or Chinese monitoring.

In addition to meeting the rules and regulations, this strategic change might boost buyer interest by reducing legal and technical hurdles. Additionally, TikTok would have more control over the platform's transition versus being forced to shut it down or conduct a fire sale.

Who Could Buy TikTok’s U.S. Business?

A number of important American tech companies may be in the running if the sale succeeds. Names including Microsoft, Oracle, and Meta have been mentioned in prior gossip, but a potential transaction may be hampered by competition and antitrust issues.

Based on reports, private equity firms are also looking for techniques to finance a TikTok acquisition, particularly if ByteDance's valuation matches what the US market expects.

Users and Creators Caught in the Crossfire

TikTok's enormous U.S. user base is in a state of uncertainty as the legal and political battle goes on behind the scenes. Currently, the app has over 170 million users in the US, including millions of influencers, content producers, and small business owners who depend on the network for exposure and revenue.

Many worry that their livelihoods would be disrupted by a forced sale or, worse, a ban. In recent months, TikTok has increased its public relations efforts by starting marketing campaigns and lobbying activities to convince the public and lawmakers that the app is secure and beneficial to the US economy.

What Happens Next?

It appears from the latest app development effort that ByteDance is planning for any scenario. TikTok appears keen to keep a firm hold on the U.S. market, even if it means giving the reins to someone else, no matter whether that leads to a lawsuit, a court battle, or a peaceful sale.

The next several months may be crucial for TikTok's future in one of its largest markets, even if the app is already fully operational in the United States.