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TikTok is reportedly developing a U.S.-specific version of its app, codenamed “M2,” as it prepares for a potential sale of its American operations, according to The Information. The new version is expected to launch in U.S. app stores on September 5, with existing users eventually required to migrate. The current app will remain operational until March 2026.
This major shift affects over 170 million U.S. users and is seen as an unusual yet strategic move to address national security concerns tied to TikTok’s Chinese ownership. The redesign may help TikTok demonstrate compliance with U.S. data protection laws, particularly as the company faces a looming September 17 deadline to separate from Chinese parent ByteDance under U.S. law.
Sources say TikTok’s American assets are close to being acquired by a group of non-Chinese investors led by Oracle (NYSE: ORCL). ByteDance is expected to retain a minority stake in the new entity, but the deal still hinges on approval from Chinese regulators—currently the final obstacle.
The transition to the new app poses risks, including potential user drop-off, but may ultimately strengthen TikTok’s position in the U.S. market amid intensifying scrutiny. The app revamp and possible sale follow years of regulatory pressure over data privacy and national security concerns, which escalated under President Donald Trump’s administration.
Industry observers note that this aggressive strategy could serve as a blueprint for other foreign-owned tech platforms navigating U.S. regulations. The outcome of TikTok’s restructuring may set a precedent for future cross-border tech deals involving sensitive user data and national security considerations.
