TikTok to Launch Standalone U.S.-Only App

TikTok is set to launch a standalone U.S.-only app, codenamed 'M2,' in early September to comply with federal demands for ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations by September 17 or risk a nationwide ban. The new app will operate with an independent algorithm and data infrastructure, separating U.S. user data from TikTok's global platform to address national security concerns. On launch day, the original TikTok app will be removed from U.S. app stores, but current users may retain access until March 2026. Migrating user profiles and content to the new app may present technical challenges, and U.S. users are expected to lose some access to international content. The move represents a significant operational split between TikTok’s U.S. and international services, potentially affecting 170 million American users. The technical separation could also facilitate a sale to American investors.