ByteDance is reportedly creating a new, U.S.-exclusive version of TikTok, dubbed “M2,” scheduled for release on Sept. 4. This initiative is intended to comply with U.S. legislation mandating that the Chinese-owned company divest its American TikTok operations or face a nationwide ban.
According to a report by The Information, the current TikTok app (“M”) will be removed from U.S. app stores upon M2’s release, and may stop functioning by March, though that date could change.
This comes as Trump announced on Friday that he will begin discussions with China on Monday or Tuesday regarding a potential deal, stating that the U.S. “pretty much” has an agreement in place for the app’s sale.
The law requiring TikTok’s U.S. sale was signed by President Biden, but enforcement has been repeatedly delayed by President Trump, and although a potential buyer group has emerged, the deal may still need approval from the Chinese government.
As of now, the ban is scheduled to take effect on Sept. 17.
On June 19, Trump issued his third executive order granting TikTok a 90-day extension to continue operating in the U.S., following earlier extensions in January and April.
The latest delay followed a failed deal after China withdrew support due to new U.S. tariffs. While the legal basis for these extensions remains unclear, no court challenges have emerged. TikTok has simply continued to operate for its 170 million U.S. users, with support from Apple, Google, and Oracle.
Trump, who has over 15 million TikTok followers, credits the platform for boosting his popularity among young voters. Analysts suggest the situation resembles a political “Groundhog Day,” with no clear resolution in sight. Despite uncertainty, TikTok is expanding, recently unveiling new AI tools.
Public opinion remains divided: a Pew survey shows only one-third of Americans support a ban, down from 50% in 2023, with data security being the top concern.
