TikTok faces a pivotal moment as the Supreme Court prepares to rule on whether the Chinese-owned app can continue operating in the United States. The decision, expected Friday, Jan 10th, comes in response to appeals filed by TikTok and its users challenging legislation requiring the app’s sale to a non-Chinese owner. The outcome could significantly impact the app’s millions of American users and reshape the social media landscape.

Under current legislation, TikTok plans to cease operations in the U.S. by January 19 unless the Supreme Court intervenes. Lawyers representing TikTok and its parent company, ByteDance, have argued that even a brief shutdown could lead to a loss of one-third of the app’s daily U.S. users and a substantial decline in advertising revenue. Content creators have been urged to back up their videos and prepare for potential disruptions. President-elect Donald Trump, who is set to take office the day after the proposed shutdown, has called on the court to delay any ban, suggesting that a “political resolution” could avert a definitive decision. Trump’s request underscores the high stakes, as his administration may seek to address the app’s ownership and national security concerns through alternative means. This legal battle marks a critical juncture for TikTok’s future in the U.S., highlighting broader tensions over technology, national security, and U.S.-China relations. All eyes are on the Supreme Court as millions of users and content creators await clarity on the platform’s fate.