Friday, 4 April 2025
27.2 C
Singapore
28.1 C
Thailand
20.3 C
Indonesia
26.9 C
Philippines

TikTok bill makes its way through the House, but the app remains for now

The US House has passed a bill that could ban TikTok unless ByteDance divests, but the app remains available.

In a significant development, the US House of Representatives has passed a bill that could lead to the ban of the widely popular app TikTok unless its parent company ByteDance divests. Dubbed the “Protecting Americans From Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act”, the bill was pushed forward with an overwhelming majority vote of 352 to 65 on Wednesday. However, before you think about saying your goodbyes to TikTok, it’s worth noting that the app isn’t going anywhere just yet. The bill now awaits consideration by the Senate, and President Biden has indicated he would sign it into law if it passes through.

A closer look at the legislative process

Despite the House’s decisive vote, TikTok remains accessible in the US. The bill’s journey is far from over, and several more hurdles must be cleared before becoming law. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has mentioned that he will consult with committee chairpersons to determine whether to bring the bill to a Senate vote. The outcome in the Senate is far from certain, and even if it passes there, it doesn’t automatically mean TikTok will be banned. The ultimate aim is to pressure ByteDance to sell TikTok to a US entity. Failure to comply would make distributing TikTok illegal in the US.

Criticism and support within the House have been vocal. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez criticised the rushed process and lack of public debate on the bill’s implications. On the other side, proponents like Rep. Nancy Pelosi urged support, emphasising the bill’s goal to address national security concerns linked to foreign-owned apps like TikTok.

The broader implications and the fight for control

While targeting TikTok, the bill sets a precedent for how the US may deal with applications from countries it considers foreign adversaries. ByteDance would have 165 days to sell TikTok if the bill becomes law. Interestingly, reports have suggested that figures like ex-Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick are eyeing a purchase of the app.

The legislation would ban the distribution or updating of apps from companies like ByteDance and impose restrictions on internet hosting services that enable such apps. This move follows bipartisan concerns over the potential for foreign interference and data privacy issues associated with apps like TikTok. The FBI and FCC have previously raised alarms over ByteDance’s possible data sharing with the Chinese government, although evidence of such activity remains scant.

TikTok has not been passive in the face of these legislative efforts. The company has mobilised its user base to lobby against the ban, highlighting the significant impact such a decision would have on free speech and digital expression. The ACLU has also voiced opposition, stressing the importance of preserving Americans’ rights to free expression.

As the bill progresses to the Senate, its fate remains uncertain. Both Republican and Democratic senators have expressed reservations, particularly about the precedent of targeting specific companies by name. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether TikTok will remain a staple on American smartphones or if it will face restrictions that could alter the digital landscape.

Hot this week

Fujifilm unveils GFX100RF: A 102MP medium format compact camera

Fujifilm announces the GFX100RF, a 102MP medium-format compact camera. It is available for pre-order at S$7,999, and early buyers will receive free gifts.

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

Qualcomm expands AI research with MovianAI acquisition

Qualcomm has acquired Vietnamese AI research firm MovianAI to boost its AI development in smartphones, PCs, and software-defined vehicles.

NVIDIA Blackwell platform sets new performance benchmark in MLPerf Inference v5.0

NVIDIAโ€™s GB200 NVL72 sets a new benchmark in MLPerf Inference v5.0 with 30x token throughput, leading AI factory performance.

MacBook Pro design overhaul expected in 2026

Apple might release a long-awaited MacBook Pro redesign in 2026, with OLED screens, improved portability, and more features.

Spotify introduces AI-powered ads and programmatic ad buying

Spotify unveils AI-powered ads and the Spotify Ad Exchange, making it easier for advertisers to reach Gen Z listeners with real-time bidding.

YouTube expands shopping affiliate programme in Singapore through Shopee partnership

YouTube teams up with Shopee to launch its Shopping affiliate programme in Singapore, giving creators new ways to monetise their content.

Misconceptions about STEM careers continue to deter young women in Singapore

New research shows stereotypes and lack of support are deterring young women from STEM careers, posing a risk to Singaporeโ€™s innovation goals.

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK to help Hong Kong brands expand into Southeast Asia

Synagie and HKT launch ShopHK, helping Hong Kong SMEs tap into Southeast Asia's booming US$600 billion e-commerce market.

Related Articles