As TikTok’s future remains uncertain, individuals are going to great lengths to ensure they can have it on their devices right now.
If you hadn’t realized this before the app’s potential ban, TikTok enthusiasts are undoubtedly passionate about the platform.
Beyond the multitude of ‘farewell’ and ‘final TikTok’ videos expressing their affection for the app, some are demonstrating their dedication in tangible ways.
Although the ban is temporarily paused as the company negotiates with the Trump administration, some people still lack access to the platform.
For those who were unlucky enough not to download the app or, even worse, deleted it before January 19, they may find themselves at a loss since it has been removed from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
Clever eBay sellers have capitalized on the high demand by offering phones with the app pre-installed.
On eBay, iPhones featuring the app are being listed for millions of dollars.
If you’re not keen on spending such exorbitant amounts, you can still find these phones, although they may still cost thousands.
Apple acknowledges that some people are caught in this situation but indicate that despite Trump granting TikTok an extension to secure a buyer, they intend to comply with the law and implement the ban.
TikTok remains optimistic about resolving the issue and has expressed appreciation for Trump’s efforts to facilitate a solution.
When TikTok was initially banned, users encountered a pop-up message stating: “Sorry, TikTok isn’t available right now. A law banning TikTok has been enacted in the US. Unfortunately, that means you can’t use TikTok for now.”
“We are fortunate that President Trump has indicated that he will work with us on a solution to reinstate TikTok once he takes office. Please stay tuned!”
Upon its return, TikTok released another statement: “In agreement with our service providers, TikTok is in the process of restoring service. We thank President Trump for providing the necessary clarity and assurance to our service providers that they will face no penalties providing TikTok to over 170 million Americans and allowing over seven million small businesses to thrive.”
Who knows if things will return to normal, but imagine if the app becomes available again on the app store, and you were the one who spent a million dollars on a phone with it installed… you’d be regretting that decision.