The ongoing saga surrounding TikTok's future continues to be a source of frustration and uncertainty, with Oracle now being the center of attention. Former President Donald Trump hinted that Oracle might be the company to take over TikTok's operations in the United States, sparking a wave of speculation. However, the Trump administration has denied any formal plans for this acquisition.
Trump stated, "I like Oracle," and this remark fueled rumors that the software giant could play a crucial role in resolving national security concerns regarding TikTok. The video-sharing app, owned by China's ByteDance, has been under scrutiny for potential data privacy and security risks. Amid growing pressure, Trump had previously issued an executive order threatening to ban TikTok unless a deal with an American company was finalized.
TikTok Granted a Brief Extension
TikTok now faces less than 75 days before another potential ban after President Donald Trump signed an executive order, granting the viral app an extension to find a buyer. This brief respite has given ByteDance a glimmer of hope to negotiate with potential U.S. buyers.
With time running out, the Trump administration is actively facilitating discussions between ByteDance and prospective U.S. suitors, including Oracle and Microsoft. These negotiations represent a last-ditch effort to avoid a total ban of TikTok in the U.S.
Details of the Deal in the Works
According to a new report from NPR, the current deal in the works involves Oracle, the business-focused software company, taking over TikTok's algorithm, data collection, and software updates. Other U.S. investors, like Microsoft, are also reportedly involved in the acquisition process.
Interestingly, ByteDance would not be completely excluded from TikTok's future. The proposed deal would allow ByteDance to hold a minority stake, meaning the company would still have a presence in TikTok's operations.
Trump’s Perspective on the Matter
Trump has since denied the report from NPR, stating that “numerous people, very substantial people, are talking to me about buying it” and reaffirming his intention to make a decision within the next 30 days.
While things could still change, Trump has previously expressed his preference for Oracle to take over TikTok. The company’s experience with cloud computing and data management could help address the national security concerns raised. However, ByteDance’s continued involvement in the deal may present additional challenges in securing approval from the U.S. government.
Time Is Running Out for TikTok
These latest discussions come just one week after TikTok went dark, being removed from Apple and Google's mobile app stores. The removal was a direct response to a law passed by Congress and signed by then-President Joe Biden, which required TikTok to sever ties with ByteDance due to concerns about China's influence over the app.
This legal development has only added to the urgency of the ongoing talks. Without being available in key app stores, TikTok's future in the U.S. market now hangs in the balance. The situation has become more desperate with each passing day.
Trump’s Change of Heart
Trump, who originally spearheaded the effort to ban TikTok in the U.S., has had a sudden change of heart this time. Citing his own use of the app in his successful 2024 election campaign, Trump vowed to make a deal to "save" TikTok. Shortly after his inauguration, Trump signed an executive order granting TikTok an additional 75-day extension.
Thanks to Trump’s intervention, TikTok has been restored for U.S. users. However, Apple and Google have yet to bring the app back to their stores, worried about potential fines related to the TikTok ban law. This means TikTok cannot push updates or fixes to U.S. users, and those who wish to reinstall or install it on new devices are currently unable to do so.
Oracle’s Role in TikTok’s Future?
Oracle is no stranger to TikTok takeover talks.
The software company was initially floated as the top buyer during Trump’s presidency when he required ByteDance to sell the app. While the acquisition never went through, the talks led to Oracle partnering with TikTok to provide cloud services for U.S.-based data.
In fact, TikTok has become such a significant customer for Oracle that the latter has said banning TikTok would hurt its business. Other U.S. investors are also involved in the talks surrounding the acquisition.
Microsoft and Walmart’s Absence
Microsoft, a leading player in the previous round of negotiations alongside Oracle, is still reportedly part of the current discussions. However, one major player that has opted out this time is Walmart. The retail giant has reportedly decided not to participate, citing TikTok's estimated asking price as the primary factor for their withdrawal.
Trump’s Preference: Oracle?
Although these discussions are fluid and could change, it does seem that Oracle remains President Trump’s preferred option to take over TikTok. Recently, Trump was asked by a reporter whether he would be open to Elon Musk buying TikTok.
While Trump stated he had no objections, he added his own suggestion for a buyer.
“I’d like Larry to buy it, too,” Trump said, referring to Oracle’s billionaire founder Larry Ellison.
What’s Next for TikTok?
In the coming 30 days, we will likely know more about TikTok's future. Time is rapidly running out, and every decision now carries a sense of regret for what could have been. Whether it’s Oracle, Microsoft, or another company that steps in, the outcome will undoubtedly determine TikTok’s fate in the U.S.
As we wait for that final decision, it’s clear that no matter how things unfold, TikTok will forever remain a symbol of the digital age's uncertainties and challenges.