TikTok developing new app for US ahead of expected sale: Report

TikTok is reportedly in the process of creating a new app tailored specifically for its American audience, according to a recent report by Reuters, which cites The Information. This development comes as the company prepares for a potential sale to a consortium of U.S. investors. The newly designed app is expected to debut on U.S. app stores by September 5. Users will soon be required to transition to this updated version to continue accessing the platform, although the existing app will likely remain operational until March of next year. However, it's important to note that this timeline may still be subject to change. This move follows remarks made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who announced plans to initiate discussions with China regarding a TikTok deal. Trump expressed confidence that a preliminary agreement concerning the future of the popular short-video app is already in place. Last month, Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance, TikTok's parent company based in China, to divest its U.S. operations to September 17. Previously, there was a plan to spin off TikTok's U.S. operations into a new American-owned entity, but this initiative was put on hold after China indicated its opposition, particularly in light of recent U.S. tariff measures. Trump also acknowledged that any conclusive agreement would likely need to be approved by Beijing. TikTok has yet to respond to requests for comment from Reuters, and the agency has been unable to independently verify the claims made by The Information.