With a TikTok ban looming, some users are scrambling to find a new destination for trending videos.
The idea to ban the short-form video app because of security concerns tied to its Beijing-based owner initially came up during Donald Trump’s first term as president. Since then, court cases have inched the app closer to an outright ban in the United States. On Friday, the Supreme Court appeared likely to clear the way for a federal law that would shut down TikTok in the United States unless the popular video-sharing platform divests from Chinese ownership. A decision is expected this week.
Replacing TikTok won’t be as simple as migrating to a new video app, though. TikTok has become a go-to spot for news, internet culture and lively debates, especially among young people. To compete, other video platforms would need large numbers of talented creators, loyal users and raucous comment sections.
