Here are the key points on the emerging proposal and what it could mean:
Trump’s team is reportedly crafting a deal that would require ByteDance (TikTok’s parent company) to sell its ownership stake or create a separation that isolates Chinese control.
Supporters argue the deal aims to protect user data and prevent foreign influence, framing TikTok as more than just an app—it’s a digital 'bridgehead’ for Chinese soft power.
Critics warn that forcing a sale or splitting ownership could violate legal norms, stifle innovation, and create risks for investments in tech and cross-border business.
TikTok has pushed back, emphasizing its commitment to working with U.S. regulators and putting user security front and center in any negotiation.
Redrawing the Digital Boundary
What seems like a single company fight might end up being a test of how much control governments exercise over tech platforms—and who owns the story behind our social feeds.
