TikTok reportedly developing new version of app ahead of planned US sale

In a significant development for its operations in the United States, popular short-video platform TikTok is reportedly developing a distinct new version of its application specifically for its U.S. user base. This strategic move comes amidst ongoing discussions and an anticipated sale of the app to a consortium of investors.

According to a report from The Information, the new iteration of the app is slated for launch as early as September 5. Following its introduction, the existing version of the TikTok application is expected to cease functioning for U.S. users by March of the following year. It is important to note that, as with many major tech rollouts, this timeline remains subject to potential adjustments.

The implications for millions of American TikTok users are clear: to continue engaging with the social network, they will be required to download and transition to this new, U.S.-specific application. This potentially disruptive transition underscores the complexity of the current regulatory and ownership landscape facing the ByteDance-owned platform.

This news emerges just two days after President Donald Trump publicly stated his intention to resume discussions with China regarding a potential deal for TikTok’s sale this week. President Trump indicated that the government has “pretty much” secured an agreement on the divestiture of the widely used short-video app, as reported by Reuters.

The ongoing saga surrounding TikTok’s U.S. future has seen multiple deadlines for a potential ban. Last month, President Trump extended the ban deadline for the third time, pushing it to September 17. The development of a separate U.S. app version appears to be a proactive step by TikTok to navigate these complex geopolitical and commercial pressures, ensuring continuity for its vast American user base regardless of future ownership.