TikTok set to launch standalone US app in move towards sale of Stateside operations

Push to separate TikTok’s US app from its global platform has been underway for months

TikTok is preparing to launch a standalone app for US users that is expected to operate on a separate algorithm and data system from its global app

TikTok is preparing to launch a standalone app for US users that is expected to operate on a separate algorithm and data system from its global app, laying the groundwork for a potential sale orchestrated by US President Donald Trump, according to people familiar with the matter.

Over the past several months, TikTok employees have been working under tight deadlines to build a new, US-specific version of TikTok by transferring and duplicating the application's codebase — including AI models, algorithms, features, and user data — from the global platform, current employees at the company told Reuters, who requested anonymity while discussing private matters.