TikTok finalized an agreement that will allow the app to operate in the United States via a joint venture based there. The move comes after years of US legislators who have raised concerns over data security and safety. Now that this agreement is in place, TikTok creators and advertisers will be looking at the actual changes.
Users need to install a TikTok new app?
TikTok is trying to minimize disruption. US users will not be expected to install a new application. With nearly 200,000,000 users, the United States is still TikTok’s biggest market. If you force people to change apps, it could result in losing advertisers and users. This is especially true as Instagram Reels’ competition continues to increase.
Experts in the industry believe TikTok has been working to assure advertisers of the daily operation’s stability. Both brands and creators are looking for stability and assurance that they will continue to earn money and reach their target audience.
What has changed in TikTok US Terms and Conditions?
After the finalization of the deal, TikTok did update its Terms of Service for US Users. The users are entering into an agreement with TikTok USDS Joint Venture, a newly formed entity.
There are several important points in the updated Terms. TikTok’s Under 13 Experience is the only way for children under 13 to use TikTok. It also says that the new US entity does not endorse or support content posted on TikTok.
What will the algorithm of TikTok be for US users?
TikTok confirmed its recommendation system would be retrained based on US user data. Although this may have caused some concern, the experts are confident that any changes would be gradual.
Most users will not notice a dramatic change in the application overnight.
Can US users expect less content from abroad?
The use of a licensed TikTok algorithm may limit the movement of data between regions. It could affect the way content is ranked and moderated. TikTok claims that the joint venture allows US users to still experience global content.
According to the company, US-based creators and businesses will continue to be able reach international audiences.
CapCut or Lemon8?
CapCut, Lemon8, and ByteDance were all affected when TikTok went temporarily offline in January 2025. Their future in the US at that time was unclear.
TikTok confirmed that safeguards in the joint-venture also apply to CapCut Lemon8 and other ByteDance applications used in the US. Their operations are safe for the time being.
