Amazon has made a significant move to acquire TikTok, increasing competition over the future of the video platform in the U.S.
According to CNBC, Amazon submitted its proposal to Vice President JD Vance and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick this week. However, sources indicate that this last-minute offer, just days before the April 5 deadline, may not gain much traction.
TikTok faces a U.S. ban unless its Chinese owner, ByteDance, sells its American arm by the cutoff. Lawmakers have long flagged national security and data privacy risks, driving the pressure. Last year’s law set a January 19 divestment date, later extended 75 days by former President Trump. Time’s ticking.
Amazon makes last-minute bid to buy TikTok — NYT
Saturday deadline for TikTok in US to be bought from Chinese owner or get BANNED
Would you want TikTok owned by Amazon? pic.twitter.com/k82E7dQdOB
— RT (@RT_com) April 2, 2025
Competing Bids and TikTok’s Value
Amazon isn’t alone. AppLovin, a mobile tech firm, also bid for TikTok, which is muddying the waters. With 170 million U.S. users and a thriving TikTok Shop, the app’s e-commerce clout makes it a prize. After its short video flop last year, Amazon sees TikTok as a way to supercharge its online marketplace.
Read: Trump to Review Final TikTok Proposal in Oval Office Meeting
The companies collaborate, and users can link TikTok to Amazon for seamless shopping. But this tie has sparked security worries among lawmakers, complicating any deal. A successful acquisition could redefine e-commerce and social media landscapes.
As the deadline approaches, TikTok’s future remains uncertain. If Amazon’s bid is accepted, it could revolutionize the technology landscape.