In brief
In a recent announcement, the White House confirmed that a deal regarding TikTok has been established, emphasizing American control over the algorithm that drives the app's content. This arrangement stems from ongoing discussions between U.S. President Trump and China's Xi Jinping, aiming to facilitate a sale of TikTok's U.S. operations from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. The deal, pending finalization, is expected to enhance data security measures as Americans will occupy a majority of the oversight board.
WASHINTON (AP) — An emerging TikTok deal with China will ensure that U.S. companies control the algorithm that powers the app’s video feed and that Americans will hold a majority of seats on a board overseeing U.S. operations, the White House said Saturday.A central question in the tug-of-war between Washington and Beijing has been whether the popular social video platform would retain its algorithm after a potential divestment of its Chinese parent company, ByteDance.As Congress moves to legislate a TikTok ban set to take effect in January, President Donald Trump has signed orders permitting TikTok to continue its operations in the U.S. while negotiations for ByteDance to sell TikTok's U.S. division are underway.White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt disclosed that tech giant Oracle will manage the app’s data and security, and six out of seven planned board members will be American.“We are 100% confident that a deal is done, now that deal just needs to be signed, and the president’s team is working with their Chinese counterparts to finalize it,” Leavitt told Fox News.The situation garnered more attention when President Trump and China's Xi Jinping discussed the TikTok circumstances in a recent phone call. Leavitt further indicated, “the algorithm will also be controlled by America as well,” adding assurance that the arrangement is progressing positively.While speaking to the media, Trump noted that American investors are prepared, and he praised Xi's demeanor in negotiations, yet refrained from detailing control over the algorithm itself.“It’s all being worked out,” Trump stated. “We’re going to have very good control.”Following the phone call, a statement from the Chinese government did not provide clarity on what agreements were made regarding TikTok’s algorithm and ownership, as the U.S. strives to prevent a ban of the application. Leavitt has expressed optimism for a swift conclusion of the agreement, saying, “Now we just need this deal to be signed. I anticipate that will happen soon.”
