The Supreme Court ruled today that the law banning TikTok is not a violation of free speech. Unless an extension is put in place, the ban is slated to take effect this Sunday.
The impending TikTok ban has been shocking to most teens and social media influencers. TikTok, an app that is mainly used for entertainment–such as funny videos or even creating videos for informative reasons–became widely popular in the United States in 2018. However, starting off as Musical.ly, which was mainly used for lip syncing videos, the company merged with a new platform and evolved as TikTok in September of 2016.
The platform grew immensely over the years, with dedicated users turn to the app daily. This social media platform is on the verge of getting banned on Jan. 19 due to national security threats. The treat stems from what the Chinese-owned company ByteDance does with the data collected on its users, rather than the content of what appears on TikTok. Thus, if the company does not divest its interest from that of the Chinese government by Sunday, the ban will supposedly go into effect. Concerned are the many social media influencers who have been making a living wage just on the app itself.
Taking office just one day prior to the impending ban, President-elect Trump may weigh in on the matter. “The Supreme Court decision was expected,” Trump indicated online, “and everyone must respect it. My decision on TikTok will be made in the not too distant future, but I must have time to review the situation. Stay tuned!”
Meanwhile, sophomore student at Elkhart High School, Maleah Rollins, isn’t overly concerned either way. “Most influencers are on more than one app, so they will lose some followers but not much.” Even though TikTok is similar to other social media apps–such as Instagram or YouTube–it still has its unique features that makes it uniquely its own app. For instance, the app has its creative capabilities that can inspire many people, and its viral trends can connect others all around the world.
Matthew Toillo, also a sophomore student, contends that the ban is nothing but hype. “The ban is unlikely because people not only make a living off of TikTok but also spend money on currency within the app, as well.” He then points out that “users invest money into funds for livestreams with donations and gifts, as well as spending money for views,” with TikTok showing how many users support small creators.
This ban will also have a likely impact on small businesses, as well. Tanya Bello, yet another a sophomore, agrees with this statement. “The ban will definitely lower the viewership of products and services that small businesses provide.” She also believes that “since TikTok is so popular, it would be difficult to advertise on other platforms.” Many small creators depend on TikTok’s algorithm and views to help support them.
Understandably, many in the country are on pins and needles to see what transpires regarding Sunday’s expected ban on TikTok. This app has came long ways since its release and has impacted millions with its creativity, providing users with full control to create their own space. As the clock ticks down, it will be interesting to see what the future of TikTok will be.
