TikTokBan 2025: Imagine spending a whopping Rs 43 crore on a smartphone just because it has TikTok installed. Sounds like something out of a wild story, right? But this is actually happening! 
 As the debate surrounding social media governance evolves with TikTok continuing to face criticism, the app’s availability remains restricted on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. As a result, fans desperate to access the app are shelling out jaw-dropping sums for phones that still have TikTok pre-installed.

The TikTok Ban That Sparked Chaos

The drama began on January 19, when TikTok was banned in the United States. In a panic, many users deleted the app, fearing it would never return. However, just 12 hours later, the ban was lifted. By then, those who had uninstalled TikTok were left with no way to reinstall it, as the app remains unavailable for download on both Apple and Google platforms due to ongoing legal issues.

A Price Tag That Breaks Records

Some people are going to incredible lengths to regain access to TikTok. According to a report by the New York Post, an iPhone 15 Pro with TikTok installed was listed for $5 million (approximately Rs 43 crore) on eBay. Even damaged phones, such as those with cracked screens, are being sold for astronomical prices, provided they have TikTok pre-installed.

Why Can’t Users Download TikTok in the U.S.?

While TikTok’s ban was lifted, the app still can’t be downloaded because of legal complications. Visiting the App Store or Play Store reveals a message stating that TikTok isn’t available in the user’s region. Both Apple and Google have taken a cautious approach to avoid hefty fines under U.S. laws, which penalize companies that distribute apps associated with foreign adversaries.

In simple terms, Apple and Google have halted TikTok downloads until the legal disputes are resolved. Many users who uninstalled the app during the ban now find themselves unable to download it again, while those with TikTok still installed on their devices continue to enjoy it uninterrupted.

Confusion Among Users

Frustrated TikTok fans are running into roadblocks when trying to download or update the app. Android users on Google Play are getting a frustrating error message that says downloads are on hold due to "current U.S. legal requirements." Meanwhile, iPhone users are seeing a similar warning that claims TikTok and other apps from its parent company, ByteDance, are not available in their region.

Both platforms direct users to support pages explaining that they are complying with U.S. legal requirements. Apple, for instance, clarifies that it must operate within the jurisdictions’ laws, emphasizing the legal complexities surrounding TikTok’s availability.

The Legal Battle and What Lies Ahead

Although TikTok was initially banned, former President Donald Trump extended the deadline for ByteDance to find a buyer for its U.S. operations. This move gave the company more time to negotiate a potential sale. Analysts suggest that Apple and Google are waiting for additional legal safeguards before allowing TikTok downloads to resume.

Interestingly, several buyers have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring TikTok’s U.S. assets, with speculation even pointing to Elon Musk as a potential candidate.

Phones with TikTok Are the New Gold

With no clear timeline for TikTok’s return to app stores, the demand for phones with the app installed has skyrocketed. Social media platforms are flooded with users offering exorbitant amounts to acquire such devices. One user on X (formerly Twitter) even offered $5,000 for an iPhone 16 Pro Max with TikTok installed.