TikTok, the popular social media app, is still unavailable in app stores in the United States. However, the company has come up with a solution for Android users to bypass the ban and download the app. Here's how you can do it.
TikTok Offers Android Package Kit for Download
This week, TikTok announced the release of an Android package kit that allows users to download both TikTok and TikTok Lite. TikTok Lite is a streamlined version of the app that offers limited features for optimized performance and reduced data usage.
Features of TikTok Lite
While TikTok Lite allows users to watch content, follow creators, and interact with their content, some features like livestreams and the TikTok Shop are not available on this version. Similar to other social media companies like Facebook, TikTok is providing a lite version of its app to cater to users with limited data access.
How to Download TikTok on Android
To download TikTok on your Android device, simply visit TikTok's official website at TikTok.com/download. From there, tap on the "download" button and follow the on-screen instructions to install the app. It is recommended to only download the app from TikTok's website directly to avoid potential malware threats.
Security Measures in Place
TikTok reassures users that strict security protocols are in place for the versions of its apps available for download through the Android package kit. The company collaborates with Oracle and Independent Security Inspectors to ensure that the apps are safe and secure for users.
Concerns and Future of TikTok in the US
Following concerns about data privacy and national security, TikTok faced a ban in the US which led to the requirement for its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest from the app. While discussions regarding the potential sale of TikTok are ongoing, ByteDance has hinted that it may prefer to shut down TikTok in the US rather than selling it.
For iPhone users, TikTok can still be accessed by adding a shortcut to the mobile website on the home screen. Simply navigate to TikTok's website using the Safari app and select "add TikTok to home screen" to create a shortcut for easy access.
Despite the challenges, TikTok continues to explore solutions to keep its platform accessible to users in the US and around the world.
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By: kniemeyer@insider.com (Kenneth Niemeyer)
Title: TikTok Finds a Way for Android Users to Download the App Despite US Ban
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/how-to-download-tiktok-android-lite-ban-2025-2
Published Date: Thu, 13 Feb 2025 22:56:45 +0000
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