TikTok plans for immediate shutdown in the U.S. this Sunday, January 19

TikTok is gearing up to shut down its app for U.S. users this Sunday, the day a federal law banning the app takes effect—unless the Supreme Court steps in to block the ban, according to The Information, which cited two sources familiar with the company’s plans.

Instead of letting users continue accessing the app, TikTok plans to display a pop-up message when users try to open it. The message will redirect them to a website with details about the ban, one source told The Information. Additionally, TikTok intends to offer users the ability to download and save their personal data, ensuring they can retain a record of their information.

“TikTok plans to shut off its app for U.S. users on Sunday, the day a federal law will ban the app, unless the Supreme Court intervenes to block the ban, according to two people familiar with TikTok’s plans,” The Information reported.

By cutting off access entirely, rather than leaving the app functional for existing users, TikTok aims to drive home the immediate effects of the ban for its audience.

The law specifically prohibits new downloads but does not require a full shutdown for existing users. TikTok’s proactive approach, however, underscores the weight of the situation, leaving no ambiguity about the implications of the ban.

The report came just a day following Bloomberg’s report that TikTok was discussing a potential sale to Elon Musk amid a looming Supreme Court ruling. The report added that Chinese officials are weighing an option that could see Elon Musk acquiring TikTok’s U.S. operations if the app is unable to avoid a controversial ban. The discussions reflect Beijing’s strategic considerations as TikTok faces mounting pressure in the United States.

A potential sale to Musk carries strategic appeal for China. Musk, a known supporter of Trump’s re-election campaign, has cultivated a working relationship with the Chinese government through ventures like Tesla’s Shanghai factory. These ties could make him a favorable candidate for managing TikTok’s U.S. operations.

TikTok’s U.S. business, valued at $40–50 billion according to Bloomberg Intelligence analysts, represents a significant investment—even for the world’s richest person. Musk’s ability to finance such a deal remains uncertain, particularly as he continues to address financial obligations from his $44 billion acquisition of Twitter in 2022.