Microsoft is reportedly considering purchasing TikTok’s U.S. operations, according to former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Speaking about the potential deal, Trump noted that “there’s great interest in TikTok,” emphasizing that multiple bidders could be involved.
The potential acquisition comes as the U.S. government continues to scrutinize TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, due to national security concerns. Officials worry that the app’s vast user data—spanning 170 million Americans—could be accessed by the Chinese government.
During his statement, Trump expressed his preference for a competitive bidding process. “We’ll see what happens.
We’re going to have a lot of people bidding on it. If we can save all those jobs and keep China out, that would be a positive outcome,” he said. He added that a bidding war could lead to better terms for the app’s acquisition.
Microsoft has declined to comment on its involvement in the potential purchase. However, reports suggest that the tech giant is evaluating its options as TikTok faces mounting pressure to secure a buyer.
The video-sharing platform was previously given a deadline to divest its U.S. operations by January 19. After briefly pausing the process, the company was granted an extension of 75 days, now facing an April 4 deadline to finalize a sale or risk being banned in the U.S. However, a presidential decision could further delay the Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter.
TikTok’s uncertain future in the U.S. has sparked concerns among its users and content creators, many of whom rely on the platform for income and social engagement. As discussions continue, Microsoft and other potential buyers could play a crucial role in determining whether TikTok remains accessible to its American user base.
With the deadline fast approaching, all eyes are on the negotiations to see whether Microsoft or another bidder will take control of TikTok’s U.S. operations.