TikTok is preparing to fully shut down access to its app for US users should a potential ban go into effect on Sunday, January 19th.
As reported by The Information, TikTok plans to show a pop-up message to Americans attempting to open the app that will direct them to a website with information about the ban. It will also give users an option to download all their data.
This action goes a step further than the conditions stipulated in the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, which mandates TikTok no longer be listed on app stores. While TikTok previously confirmed the app was shutting down, it was expected that existing users could continue using it for some time.
Per Reuters, TikTok would be able to restore access to US users in “a relatively short time” if the ban gets reversed later.
Last week, TikTok presented a First Amendment argument for overturning the ban in front of the US Supreme Court. As of now, it appears the Supreme Court is inclined to uphold the law.
To learn more, read our breakdown of the debate over banning TikTok and find out why the app is terrible for music discovery.