By skyforbes 
TikTok is a favorite app of users, and its algorithm repeatedly shows content that users like. In view of the data and privacy of users in the United States, now American companies will control the TikTok algorithm. The foundation of TikTok’s data leak concerns ByteDance, the new algorithm policy of the United States, Trump’s opposition to and support for TikTok, and the impact of policies on global users. The details of these points are as follows:
The Foundation and Success of TikTok
The famous Chinese company ByteDance launched TikTok in 2016. In 2017, it bought a popular app, Musical.ly, and combined the two to launch it globally in 2018 under the name TikTok. TikTok is now the most downloaded app, with more than 170 million followers in the US alone, and one billion followers worldwide.
Concerns About Data Leaks at Chinese Company ByteDance
US authorities have long expressed concerns that the Chinese company ByteDance could use the data of American users for improper purposes. Therefore, TikTok’s American operations should be separated and handed over to the US. According to Chinese law, the company can hand over data to the government.
TikTok Deal Between China and the US
According to US President Donald Trump, there has been a telephone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, and important points have been agreed upon, but China has not officially announced it.
American Companies and TikTok’s Algorithm Control
The White House has formally announced that American companies will control TikTok. Six of the seven board directors will be American, and one Chinese director, so the United States has the authority to make major decisions and reduce negative content.
Oracle Company is the Guardian of TikTok Data
Press Secretary Kerr Willin said that the American technology company, Oracle, is the guardian of the data and privacy of American users. This increases the trust of users and places all the power in the hands of the United States.
New American TikTok Algorithm
The main reason for the success of the Chinese TikTok app is its AI algorithm, which makes users watch videos repeatedly according to their preferences. The US will develop a new model by keeping the old algorithm in front of it. A commercial company has been added for the new model.
Trump’s Opposition to TikTok and Now Support
In early 2024, the US Supreme Court banned TikTok for a period of time. President Trump strongly opposed it, but in 2024, Donald Trump resorted to TikTok for his political campaign and openly supported it.
The Impact of These Policies on Global Consumers
TikTok’s or any other large company’s data policies could impact global users in several ways:
1. Privacy Concerns
If a company shares user data with a government under a country’s laws, global users’ personal information (such as videos, location, search history) could end up in the hands of a foreign government. This is the biggest privacy risk.
2. Data Localization Demands
Some countries may require user data to be stored in their own country for national security reasons. This means that user data will be stored in a specific country, which can sometimes impact service speed or app functionality.
3. Legal and Political Restrictions
If a country’s government wants control over data or algorithms, user information and experience could be affected. For example, access to certain content may be limited, or certain content may be shown preferentially.
4. User Trust and Usage
When users are concerned that their data is not secure, or could fall into the hands of a government, they may be hesitant to use the platform. This can affect the company’s reputation globally.
5. Algorithm Transparency and Control
If the algorithm is changed under a country’s laws, users may notice a change in their content viewing experience. For example, some videos may be shown more, or some content may be hidden.