A Breakthrough Deal on TikTok
The White House has confirmed that TikTok will continue operating in the United States after a landmark agreement that places its algorithm and data security under American control. The move comes after months of uncertainty and threats of a nationwide ban.
Under the arrangement, Oracle will handle TikTok’s data storage and security within the US. At the same time, six of the seven seats on a new governing board will be filled by American representatives, ensuring oversight remains firmly in US hands.
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the deal was designed to safeguard against foreign influence. “The algorithm will also be controlled by America as well,” she said, underlining the administration’s focus on protecting user privacy and ensuring transparency.
Trump and Xi Weigh In
President Donald Trump hailed the deal following a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, saying that American investors were ready to take charge of TikTok’s future. Trump described Xi as “a gentleman” and stressed that patriotic American stakeholders would ensure the app is operated responsibly.
“We have great American patriots that are buying it, very substantial people, people that love our country,” Trump said. “They are very smart technologically, and they will not let anything bad happen to TikTok.”
Algorithm and Privacy Concerns Addressed
At the heart of the negotiations was TikTok’s powerful recommendation algorithm, long viewed by US lawmakers as a potential tool for manipulation and influence. With direct control now shifting to American entities, officials say they are more confident in safeguarding both national security and user privacy.
Concerns had centered on the possibility of TikTok being used to subtly shape political narratives, particularly as the app has become a major platform for news consumption among young Americans.
Beijing’s Position Still Unclear
While the US confirmed the deal, China has yet to publicly endorse the sale of a controlling stake. A statement released after the Trump-Xi call omitted details about the algorithm issue, leaving some questions unanswered. However, the White House has expressed full confidence that final approvals will follow soon.
Looking Ahead
Leavitt said the administration is now “100 per cent confident that a deal is done” and suggested a formal signing could happen in the coming days. She also noted that Trump views TikTok as “a vital part of our democratic process,” hinting at the platform’s importance in shaping modern communication and discourse.
The agreement marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing debate over technology, national security, and global influence. For millions of American TikTok users, it ensures the app will remain accessible while undergoing stronger oversight.
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