Donald Trump

President-elect Donald Trump indicated on Saturday a high probability of granting TikTok a 90-day extension to finalize a deal preventing a U.S. ban.

In an NBC News interview, Trump stated that while he hadn’t made a final decision, he was considering this reprieve after his inauguration on Monday. A law barring mobile app stores and internet hosting services from distributing TikTok to U.S. users takes effect Sunday.

This law, passed by Congress and signed by President Biden last year, mandated that TikTok’s Chinese parent company sell its U.S. operations within nine months to an approved entity. The law permits presidential extension if a sale is underway.

Trump stated on “Meet the Press” that a 90-day extension was a likely option, describing it as “appropriate.” He emphasized the need for careful consideration given the situation’s significance and indicated a potential Monday announcement.

Both the White House Press Secretary and Deputy Attorney General clarified on Friday that the Biden administration would defer implementation to Trump, given the timing of his inauguration.

TikTok subsequently issued a statement requesting a definitive assurance from the Biden administration that the law would not be enforced, and that app stores and other U.S. companies would not face penalties for continued availability of TikTok.

Without such assurances, TikTok warned of being forced to cease operation, without specifying whether this meant a voluntary shutdown or suspension following loss of service provider access.

The White House dismissed TikTok’s statement as a “stunt,” asserting that no reason exists for such action before Trump’s inauguration, and reiterating that implementation falls to the incoming administration.

Apple, Google, and Oracle (TikTok’s data host) have yet to comment on their Sunday plans.