The popular social media platform TikTok is reportedly gearing up to halt operations for American users this weekend, pending a last-minute intervention by the Supreme Court or a divestiture deal. The shutdown would come into effect due to a congressional law passed last year, which mandates that ByteDance, the Chinese parent company of TikTok, must divest its ownership of the app in the U.S. or face a ban. Users and creators are preparing for the potential disruption as discussions continue at the highest levels of government. Meanwhile, there are indications that President-elect Trump may consider issuing an executive order to delay enforcement of the ban, adding another layer of uncertainty to the situation.

With the looming deadline, TikTok has been exploring various strategies to ensure continued access for its millions of American users. According to multiple reports, the company is ready to immediately cease operations on Sunday if no resolution is reached. The law, which grants TikTok nine months to either divest from ByteDance or be removed from U.S.-based app stores and hosting services, also prohibits U.S. companies from providing essential services needed to maintain or update the app. This means that even those who have already downloaded TikTok might face difficulties in using it effectively after the ban takes effect.

Legal experts and policymakers are closely watching the Supreme Court’s decision, which could either uphold the ban, overturn it, or temporarily pause it to allow more time for deliberation. In parallel, the incoming administration has signaled its intention to explore options that could keep the platform available to users beyond Sunday, potentially deferring a final decision to the new president, who will be inaugurated on Monday. The White House has stated that President Biden does not plan to intervene unless ByteDance presents a credible divestiture plan.

In response to the impending shutdown, TikTok has outlined contingency plans to inform users about the situation and provide them with options to download their data. A pop-up message directing users to a website with information about the ban is expected to appear if the platform goes dark. The company’s legal team has emphasized the significance of this moment, noting that the platform would essentially shut down if the ban proceeds as planned. Despite the challenges, efforts to preserve TikTok while protecting user data remain a priority for both the company and the incoming administration.

As the clock ticks down, all eyes are on the courts and the incoming administration to see how this complex issue will be resolved. While the immediate future of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain, the platform’s massive user base and cultural impact underscore the importance of finding a solution that balances security concerns with the interests of millions of Americans who rely on TikTok for entertainment, connection, and creativity.