On this episode, I offer up the latest on the TikTok ban.

• • Background: 

  • • In June, Trump once again delayed the TikTok ban deadline—this 3-month extension now ends in September unless the app is sold by its Chinese owners. 

    • This is the third time he’s chosen not to enforce it, even though both political parties in Congress agreed it was important for national security. 

  • Current:

  • • TikTok is developing a U.S.-only version of the app, internally called “M2,” set to launch in early September.

    • U.S. users will need to download this new version by March 2026 to continue using TikTok.

    • The U.S. version may exclude TikTok’s current algorithm, which the Chinese government refuses to sell.

    • However, President Trump claims he has a buyer lined up and appears intent on finalizing the deal before the law takes full effect.

  • What’s to come:

  • • Sircle will monitor this closely in case any updates are released about the app ahead of September.

    • • By early August, we hoping to have more clarity to begin prepping clients for potential platform changes.

    • TikTok often shares updates directly within the app so Sircle will keep an eye on notifications about new versions or legal developments.

  • Closing thought:

  • • Both the new “M2” app and Trump’s extension are expected to expire around early September 2025, which will be a key turning point.