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TikTok Returns to Android, Sort Of

By Crystal Crowder
Person using TikTok on phone.

Ever since the TikTok ban temporarily went into effect on January 19th, the app hasn’t been available in the Google Play Store or Apple App Store. That meant everyone who uninstalled the app thinking it was gone forever didn’t have a way to reinstall it. But there is some good news – at least for Android users: TikTok is back on Android.

TikTok Android App Is Back

If you’re an Android user, the TikTok Android app is back – but not on the Google Play Store. Despite the app not being banned, at least for now, the app stores refuse to put it back up. To help users get back on their favorite social media app, TikTok has released Android package kits to sideload the app.

Not only can you reinstall it, but you’ll also be able to update to the latest version. Both TikTok and TikTok Lite are available. The announcement popped up on X, but many users weren’t pleased.

TikTok Android App announcement on X

If you’re wondering why I haven’t mentioned an option for iPhone users, it’s because Apple doesn’t like sideloading, so TikTok hasn’t bothered to create a package for iPhones. For those who did uninstall TikTok, your best option is to just use the Web version for now. Even on the TikTok Android app download page, there are instructions for iOS users to install a shortcut to the Web version.

Of course, there are phones on eBay that already have TikTok installed. These are selling for hundreds and even thousands of dollars. People desperately want their app back.

I doubt the two main app stores are planning to restore TikTok until an official decision is made. Right now, that’s up in the air, as President Trump gave ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, an extra 75 days, originally 90, to partner with or sell TikTok to a US-based company.

While most of the app’s features are available in this sideloaded package, you won’t have access to a handful of them, such as TikTok Shop and LIVE. However, you’re able to watch videos, interact, follow new creators, and even upload your own content.

TikTok profile
Image source: Pexels

Is It Safe to Download the TikTok Android App?

Downloading TikTok is as safe as it ever was. TikTok has stated that you should only download the app from their official download site. Otherwise, you could end up with malware versus the real app.

To try and appease the U.S., TikTok is also giving Oracle and a team of independent security inspectors full access to the code. They’re able to check for any vulnerabilities and issues to keep users safe.

I’d recommend following TikTok on another social network for any announcements about app updates, since the Google Play Store won’t provide any updates at this point.

Ready to move on from TikTok? Try these alternatives. If you’re a creator, consider Meta and possibly get a bonus.

Image credit: Pexels

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Crystal Crowder Avatar
Crystal Crowder
Crystal Crowder has spent over 15 years working in the tech industry, first as an IT technician and then as a writer. She works to help teach others how to get the most from their devices, systems, and apps. She stays on top of the latest trends and is always finding solutions to common tech problems.

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