TikTok is reportedly preparing to launch a U.S.-exclusive version of its app as it works to comply with the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act. According to a report from The Information, this new version – internally referred to as “M2” – is slated for release in early September 2025.
The move appears to be part of TikTok owner ByteDance’s strategy to meet U.S. demands while retaining control of its platform internationally. Under the proposed plan, U.S. users would eventually be required to switch to the American-specific version of the app by March 2026. The exact differences between the standard TikTok app and the U.S.-only version remain unclear, but the update is expected to address concerns over foreign ownership and control – particularly the algorithm that powers TikTok’s user experience.
A key issue has been the Chinese government’s reported refusal to allow ByteDance to sell TikTok’s algorithm, a critical component of the app’s popularity and user engagement. Alongside this, China also understandably disapproved at the tarrifs placed on it by Trump, which had a hand in killing any deals that had already gotten off the ground. The U.S.-specific rollout could allow ByteDance to keep its algorithm outside the scope of any sale while meeting regulatory conditions for continued U.S. operation.
The development coincides with statements from former President Donald Trump, who has claimed that a buyer for TikTok has already been identified. Trump has extended the app’s divestment deadline several times, but the current timeline suggests the rollout of M2 may align with a final resolution.
While many questions remain, the initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing effort to keep TikTok available in the U.S. without violating federal mandates or compromising user data concerns.
