STREAM REPORT NEWSLETTER

#163

TikTok Is Back… For Now

January 22, 2025

Welcome to Stream Report, a newsletter from Gaming Careers covering important news and updates in streaming and content creation.

In this issue: TikTok’s future in the US has been thrown into turmoil, with bans, executive orders, and app store removals creating a whirlwind of confusion. Here’s how it’s unfolding and what it means for creators.

The TikTok Ban Saga: What Creators Need to Know

TikTok Is Back. For Now
The TikTok Ban Saga: What Creators Need to Know

It’s been a wild week in the world of TikTok. The app, beloved by millions of creators and users in the US, briefly went dark after a federal law required its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to sell its stake. But just as quickly as it disappeared, TikTok started to come back online—though not without a heavy dose of drama. Let’s break down what’s going on and what it means for creators like you.

TikTok Ban: A Timeline of Chaos

Here’s a quick recap of the whirlwind events:

  • January 19th: The Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act goes into effect, requiring ByteDance to sell TikTok to a non-foreign entity or face a ban.
  • January 20th: On his first day back in office, President Trump issues an executive order delaying enforcement of the law for 75 days, giving TikTok a temporary lifeline.
  • January 21st: TikTok begins restoring service, but it’s still missing from Apple and Google’s app stores.

Meanwhile, Trump has floated the idea of a “joint venture” where the US government would own 50% of TikTok, a proposal that raises more questions than answers.

Instagram, Twitch, and Others Make Their Move

With TikTok’s absence from app stores, other platforms are racing to attract displaced creators.

For creators, this sudden influx of options is exciting but also overwhelming.

What’s at Stake for Creators?

For creators, the TikTok ban is a stark reminder of the importance of diversifying platforms. Relying too heavily on one app can leave your audience—and your income—vulnerable to sudden changes. While Instagram’s bonuses and other platforms’ new features might seem like great opportunities, exclusivity deals could limit your ability to adapt if TikTok makes a full return. Balancing immediate opportunities with long-term flexibility is key to navigating this uncertain landscape.

What’s Next for TikTok?

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the TikTok ban saga is far from over. The 75-day extension is only a temporary fix, and TikTok’s future in the US remains uncertain. Creators should stay adaptable and proactive, ready to pivot as the situation evolves.

🔥 Pete’s Content Corner

Delve into my weekly selection of content creation highlights—handpicked videos, podcasts, and tweets that promise to captivate, educate, and entertain.

  1. Twitch is kicking off 2025 with Twitch Drops Fest, running from January 20–31, featuring in-game rewards for titles like Destiny 2, World of Warcraft, Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, and more.
  2. Kick celebrates a major milestone, announcing they’ve hit 50 million users as the platform continues to grow.
  3. Teamspeak is making a comeback with a major design overhaul, adding long-awaited features like camera and screen sharing to compete with Discord.

edition:

#163

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The founder of Gaming Careers with a borderline unhealthy obsession for cameras, microphones, and all things streaming. He gets mistaken for Stephen Merchant at least 5 times a day.

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