TikTok's Algorithm to Fall Under US Control Amid Emerging Deal

TikTok's Algorithm to be Controlled by America Under Emerging Agreement The White House confirmed on Saturday that the algorithm controlling TikTok, a popular social media platform, will soon be controlled by American entities as part of an emerging agreement between the United States and China. The deal, announced last week by the Trump administration, aims to settle the fate of TikTok in the US after months of uncertainty. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, six out of seven seats on the board controlling the app will be held by Americans, with Oracle, a leading American tech company, taking the lead on data and privacy. The algorithm's control will also be transferred to American entities. "It's unclear what exactly a US-controlled algorithm will involve," said a spokesperson for TikTok, "but we are committed to working with the US government to ensure that our platform remains safe and secure for all users." The agreement marks a significant shift in the ongoing saga surrounding TikTok's presence in the US. The app was banned by the Trump administration in August 2020, only to be reversed later that month. Since then, there have been several self-imposed deadlines for an agreement, which have yet to materialize. Background and Context TikTok has faced intense scrutiny from lawmakers and regulators over concerns about its ties to China and potential national security risks. The app's algorithm, which uses AI-powered recommendations to personalize user content, has also raised eyebrows among experts who worry about the spread of misinformation and manipulation. "AI algorithms are not neutral; they reflect the values and biases of their creators," said Dr. Kate Crawford, a leading expert on AI ethics. "If the US government gains control over TikTok's algorithm, it could have significant implications for free speech and online expression." Additional Perspectives The deal has sparked both praise and criticism from various quarters. Some see it as a necessary step to address national security concerns, while others worry about the potential for censorship and manipulation. "TikTok's algorithm is already biased towards certain types of content," said Tim Hwang, a tech policy expert. "If the US government takes control, we could see even more restrictive policies that stifle online creativity and innovation." Current Status and Next Developments The agreement is still in its early stages, with details yet to be finalized. The White House has announced that it will provide updates on the deal as more information becomes available. As the situation unfolds, experts warn that the implications of a US-controlled algorithm could be far-reaching. "This is not just about TikTok; it's about the future of online expression and free speech," said Dr. Crawford. *Reporting by Motherjones.*