Why Is TikTok Facing a Ban?
The looming TikTok ban stems from concerns over its Chinese ownership. Lawmakers argue that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, poses a national security threat by allegedly allowing the Chinese government to access user data or influence content.
The U.S. Congress passed a law last year requiring ByteDance to divest its stake in TikTok or face a ban.
Despite appeals, the Supreme Court is expected to uphold the decision, effectively preventing TikTok from operating in the United States.
Starting January 19, the app will no longer be available for download or updates on major app stores, leading to its gradual obsolescence.
Steps to Save TikTok Videos
To preserve your favorite TikTok content, users can follow these methods, as mentioned in a report by Forbes:
1. Download Videos on Desktop
Using TikTok’s desktop website is one of the easiest ways to save videos. If the creator allows downloads:
- Open TikTok.com, log in, and navigate to the video.
- Right-click the video and select “Download Video” to save it as an MP4 file.
If this option isn’t visible, it means the creator has disabled third-party downloads.
2. Download Videos on Mobile
For mobile users:
- Open the TikTok app and tap the Share button on the video.
- Select “Save Video” and choose whether to save it locally, email it, or upload it to Google Drive.
While TikTok allows users to save one video at a time, creators can explore third-party tools for bulk downloads.
Using Third-Party Tools for Bulk Downloads
For users with extensive libraries, third-party services offer solutions:
- Repurpose.io: This software enables creators to download all their TikTok videos directly to Google Drive while also allowing cross-platform publishing.
- Chrome Extensions: Tools like myfaveTT allow users to export their liked and favorited TikTok videos in bulk, organized into folders.
Will a VPN Help Bypass the TikTok Ban?
Although disabling location services within TikTok won’t circumvent the ban, using a virtual private network (VPN) may provide a workaround.
VPNs can mask a user’s location by rerouting their connection through a country where TikTok remains operational.
What Happens After the TikTok Ban?
The ban will penalize app stores and internet providers for making TikTok updates available, gradually rendering the app unusable.
ByteDance’s other app, Lemon8, may emerge as an alternative, alongside Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, and Twitch.
As TikTok fights to reverse the decision, its 170 million U.S. users are left contemplating their next steps.
For now, downloading your favorite videos is the best way to preserve TikTok memories in case the ban takes full effect.
FAQs
Will TikTok still work after a ban?
Regardless of the potential service disruptions, users could still access TikTok after the ban through various workarounds, according to experts.
Is TikTok ban permanent?
If the ban is enforced, it may not be permanent. ByteDance could choose to sell the platform to a non-Chinese owner, potentially restoring access for American users.
