- Apple has banned apps such as TikTok, CapCut, and Lemon8 in compliance with the “Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications” law, making them unavailable for download or updates in the United States starting today, January 19, 2025.
- Users in the U.S. will not be able to download or update these apps, and visitors who use the app store in non-U.S. regions will face difficulties in updating the apps or purchasing in-app items.
- This ban comes after the passing of a law last year that threatens to ban TikTok unless it is sold, a decision upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court last week, prompting both Apple and Google to take the necessary actions.
Apple has announced a list of apps that are no longer available for users in the United States, coinciding with the ban of TikTok. The company published an official statement and a support document outlining all the apps that have been blocked. This announcement is an unusual move by Apple, which rarely provides information about app bans.
The Blocked Apps
In addition to TikTok, the list includes several other apps developed by ByteDance and its subsidiaries. Among the most notable blocked apps are:
- TikTok
- TikTok Studio
- TikTok Shop Seller Center
- CapCut
- Lemon8
- Hypic
- Lark – Team Collaboration
- Lark – Rooms Display
- Lark Rooms Controller
- Gauth: AI Study Companion
- MARVEL SNAP
Reasons for the Ban
Apple explained in the support document that the ban was implemented in compliance with U.S. laws. The company stated:
“Apple must comply with the laws in the regions where it operates. Under the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act, apps developed by ByteDance and its subsidiaries, including TikTok, CapCut, Lemon8, and others, will no longer be available for download or updates on the App Store for users in the U.S. starting January 19, 2025.”
What the Ban Means for Users
For residents in the United States:
- They will not be able to download or update the blocked apps.
- In-app purchases will no longer be available.
For visitors using the App Store from non-U.S. regions:
- They will not be able to update the apps or make any in-app purchases while in the United States.
Background of the Ban
This decision follows a law passed last year that requires ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban. Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld this law, resulting in the blocking of the apps from both Apple and Google stores on January 19, 2025.
Impact of the Ban
This ban presents a significant challenge for ByteDance, which has seen substantial growth in apps like Lemon8 and CapCut in recent months. It also reflects the escalating tensions between the United States and foreign tech companies.
