In a move to save TikTok from a potential ban in the United States, Microsoft is considering to buy the short video sharing platform. The US tech giant says its CEO, Satya Nadella, has met with Donald Trump and, as a result, they plan to continue discussions about the acquisition.
Microsoft is committed to acquiring TikTok, “subject to a complete security review.” The tech firm will also provide the US government with “proper economic benefits.”
The acquisition discussions will start in a matter of weeks and the company hopes they will conclude the matter no later than September 15, 2020.
Microsoft’s move will see the company take over TikTok’s operations in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
“During this process, Microsoft looks forward to continuing dialogue with the United States Government, including with the President,” the company wrote in a blog post.
National Security Concerns
If Microsoft acquires TikTok, it will ensure all data of American users is transferred to the US. Besides, any data backed up elsewhere will have to be deleted.
For some time now, the US government has intensified TikTok’s scrutiny considering the app a national security risk. The US government says the app could be used by the Chinese Communist Party to spy on Americans.
No Sure Deal (Yet)
The company warns that these are just preliminary discussions, without any assurance.
“These discussions are preliminary and there can be no assurance that a transaction which involves Microsoft will proceed. We do not intend to provide further updates until there is a definitive outcome to our discussions.”
In response to the BBC, a TikTok’s spokesperson said, “While we do not comment on rumours or speculation, we are confident in the long-term success of TikTok.”
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