In brief
The Trump administration has announced plans to retrain TikTok's algorithm using data exclusively from US users. The agreement involves oversight from Oracle and a new joint venture designed to address security concerns surrounding the app, originally controlled by Chinese parent company ByteDance. While this move aims to secure the app's future in the US, experts warn it could significantly alter user experience and engagement.
TikTok's algorithm - the technology that determines what users see in their feed - will be copied and retrained using US user data as part of a deal to secure the app's future in the country.
A White House official revealed that TikTok's recommendation system will be audited by tech giant Oracle, and operated by a new joint venture involving US investors to meet requirements for the app's sale.
This follows President Donald Trump's announcement of a deal preventing TikTok's ban in the US, contingent upon its sale by its Chinese parent company ByteDance.
White House officials assert that the deal is a win for US users and citizens. President Trump is expected to sign an executive order outlining the deal, which will also impose a 120-day pause on enforcement deadlines to allow for its completion.
Currently, data belonging to TikTok's 170 million US users is stored on Oracle servers under an existing arrangement known as Project Texas, which aims to allay fears of data falling into Chinese government hands.
The new agreement positions Oracle to play a pivotal role in the app’s future, signing it as a patriotic investor among other collaboration partners. While the deal may ensure control over the app’s operations, analysts caution that changes to TikTok's infrastructure could disrupt user experience and content availability.
Experts suggest that if a US-only algorithm is implemented, it could alienate users by limiting access to global content, consequently affecting engagement rates and the app's value for creators.
