Smartphones with TikTok installed are being sold on online marketplaces
TikTok has been temporarily halted in the United States due to the impact of the 'TikTok Ban Act,' but it is now available again thanks to President Trump's efforts, but it has disappeared from app stores. People who have noticed this are selling smartphones with TikTok installed on them on eBay and Facebook Marketplace.
People are listing TikTok-loaded phones for as much as $50,000 on eBay | AP News
TikTok-loaded phones are selling for thousands online after law prevents new downloads - CBS News
ByteDance, which operates TikTok, terminated TikTok's service in the United States a few hours before the so-called 'TikTok Ban Act' came into effect on January 19, 2025. In addition, Apple and Google have suspended distribution of TikTok on the App Store and Google Play, respectively.
TikTok, CapCut, Lemon8, MARVEL SNAP, etc. will be suspended in the United States as the 'TikTok Ban Law' comes into effect - GIGAZINE
TikTok has since resumed its service, but the app remains banned from app stores, meaning people who have uninstalled the app are unable to return to it.
In response to this situation, 'smartphones with TikTok installed' and 'tablets with TikTok installed' have been put up for sale on online markets such as eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Below is an example, and the prices vary widely. Some of the more expensive ones are priced in the hundreds of thousands of yen.
The 'installed' state is also not consistent; while some apps have the app installed and even an account set up, others are simply installed without being linked to an account.
As in the case of TikTok, some people are now selling smartphones and tablets with ByteDance's social app 'Lemon8' and video editing app 'CapCut' installed.
The Associated Press and CBS reached out to eBay for comment on the matter but did not receive a response.
The TikTok Ban Act prohibits app stores and web hosting services from providing or distributing TikTok services, but does not apply to individuals.
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