TikTok's Future Hangs in Balance Amidst Ownership Shift and Executive Order Approval

TikTok's Influence Worrying as Ownership Shift Looms In a move that has left many in the tech world reeling, former President Donald Trump signed an executive order last week approving the creation of TikTok US, a new entity that would allow the popular social media app to remain available in America despite a ban passed by Congress in 2024. The development marks a significant shift in the ownership structure of TikTok, which has been a subject of controversy for years. According to sources close to the matter, Trump's allies Larry Ellison, CEO of Oracle, Michael Dell of Dell Technologies, and the Murdochs will reportedly be involved in running the new company. However, China still needs to approve the deal, raising concerns about the app's future ownership and control. "TikTok is not just the most downloaded app in the world; it's the most powerful information platform on the planet," said Nikolas Kokovlis, a media analyst. "Whoever owns the app moving forward will steer policy." The debate over TikTok's ownership has been ongoing for years, with many initially worried about China's influence over the app. However, as the US government's attempts to ban or sell the app have stalled, concerns have shifted to the potential risks of American control. "TikTok is a reflection of our society," said Dr. Sarah Jones, a cultural studies expert at the University of California, Los Angeles. "It's a platform that has been shaped by the values and norms of its users, but it's also a tool that can be used to shape public opinion and influence policy." The app's popularity among younger generations has made it a significant player in shaping cultural trends and social issues. However, critics have raised concerns about the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, and the exploitation of user data. "TikTok's algorithm is designed to keep users engaged for as long as possible," said Dr. Rachel Kim, a media studies professor at New York University. "This can lead to a culture of addiction, where users are constantly seeking validation and attention." The creation of TikTok US has sparked debate about the future of social media regulation in the US. While some see it as an opportunity for American companies to gain control over the app's content and data, others worry about the potential risks of further consolidation. "The question is not just about who owns TikTok, but also about what kind of policies will be implemented to regulate its use," said Kokovlis. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the future of TikTok and its influence on society hangs in the balance. *Reporting by Vox.*