ByteDance
Instagram Explores Dedicated TV App to Expand Video Presence and Challenge YouTube
Oct 10, 2025 02:53 pm CST
Instagram is developing a dedicated TV application to strengthen its video strategy and compete with platforms like YouTube and TikTok. CEO Adam Mosseri believes vertical video content can work in TV formats, as the platform with 3 billion monthly users continues its evolution from photos to video-centric features like Reels, particularly targeting growth in markets like India.
New York City Files Landmark Lawsuit Against Social Media Giants Over Youth Mental Health Crisis
Oct 09, 2025 11:38 am CST
New York City has initiated legal action against major social media platforms including Facebook, TikTok, Snapchat, and YouTube, alleging these companies deliberately designed addictive products that have fueled a mental health crisis among youth. The 327-page federal complaint cites alarming screen time statistics and dangerous trends like "subway surfing" while seeking damages for the significant public health and economic impact on the city's 1.8 million residents under age 18.
Indonesia Suspends TikTok's Operating License Over Data Transparency Issues
Oct 04, 2025 12:45 am CST
Indonesia has suspended TikTok's registration status following the platform's refusal to share complete data related to its live streaming feature during recent national protests. Despite the suspension, the app remained accessible to its 100+ million Indonesian users as officials cited violations of the country's electronic provider regulations after TikTok provided only partial data on traffic, streaming, and monetization activities.
ByteDance to Retain 50% of US TikTok Profits Under Trump-Negotiated Deal Despite Ownership Transfer
Sep 27, 2025 01:45 am CST
ByteDance is set to maintain approximately half of TikTok's US operation profits through a complex licensing and profit-sharing arrangement, despite selling majority ownership to American investors under a Trump-negotiated deal. This structure explains the surprising $14 billion valuation that falls significantly below analyst expectations of $35-40 billion, raising questions about the true economics behind this landmark tech transaction.
Trump Approves Deal Transferring TikTok US Operations to American Investors: What Users Need to Know
Sep 26, 2025 04:36 pm CST
President Trump has signed an executive order approving a deal that transfers majority control of TikTok's US operations to American investors, led by Oracle. Under the agreement, US investors will control 80% of the company and its algorithm, while ByteDance retains less than 20% ownership. The deal ensures TikTok's continued availability in the US while addressing national security concerns through American oversight of data and operations.
The Strategic Implications of the US-China TikTok Deal: What's Really at Stake
Sep 26, 2025 01:38 pm CST
The TikTok deal between the US and China represents more than just saving a popular app - it's a complex geopolitical chess move with significant implications for both nations. While Trump celebrates keeping TikTok operational in America, Beijing maintains control of the coveted algorithm through a licensing arrangement, potentially gaining concessions in other strategic areas. As ByteDance pivots toward AI dominance in China, this compromise may indicate that TikTok is now just one piece in a larger technological power struggle between the world's superpowers.
Trump Signs Executive Order Allowing TikTok to Continue Operations Under New U.S. Ownership Structure
Sep 26, 2025 05:11 am CST
President Trump has signed an executive order that allows TikTok to continue operating in the United States under a new ownership structure. The deal involves creating a U.S.-based joint venture with approximately 80% American ownership, while ByteDance retains a minority stake. The agreement addresses national security concerns while preserving the popular social media platform used by millions of Americans, particularly young adults who rely on it as a news source.
Opinion | The Real Reason Behind Trump's Change Of Heart For TikTok
Sep 24, 2025 03:48 pm CST
If the agreement eventually fructifies, then it gives us an indication into the thinking of Trump 2.0 with respect to economic security being a key element of national security.
White House Promises US-Controlled TikTok Algorithm
Sep 23, 2025 07:36 am CST
The White House on Monday said a US version of TikTok would feature a homegrown model of the app's prized algorithm, potentially clearing one of the main obstacles to keeping the Chinese-owned platform online in the United States.
TikTok US To Hold Copy Of Algorithm, Secured By Oracle: White House
Sep 23, 2025 12:10 am CST
Tech giant Oracle is set to provide security for a US version of TikTok's algorithm, the White House said Monday, under a deal for the sale of the Chinese-owned app's American operations.