The Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the Protecting Americans from Foreign Adversary Controlled Applications Act is a significant moment for both technology and geopolitics. Beginning January 19, 2025, TikTok is to be removed from U.S. app stores unless it completely severs its ties with its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. Businesses and creators relying on TikTok are unhappy. API access for marketers and developers will be lost, disrupting broader integrations.

However, could Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) provide a way to circumvent such restrictions?

The Court’s ruling brings sweeping consequences for TikTok:

  • TikTok will no longer be available for download or updates on U.S. app stores (Google Play, Apple's App Store, etc.). Over time, the app will degrade for existing users.
  • TikTok’s algorithmic recommendation system, developed in China, must be replaced under new ownership to eliminate (potential) risks of foreign control or data misuse, specifically, "countering China’s data collection and covert content manipulation efforts", and the “the covert manipulation of content”.

So welcome to geopolitical and national security impact on global technologies and digital platforms. Laws targeting foreign-controlled platforms can disrupt entire ecosystems. However, modern web technologies, such as Progressive Web Applications, may change the game.

How Modern Web Techology Could Offer a Workaround

Progressive Web Applications (PWAs) operate independently of centralized app stores. These are browser-based applications that users can add directly to their home screen, providing a user experience similar to native apps. TikTok already has a web version, and turning it into a fully developed PWA could enable:

  • Distribution Independence. Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) do not rely on app stores, which makes them resistant to potential bans.
  • Feature Parity. Modern PWAs support features such as offline access, push notifications, and functionality that is nearly equivalent to native apps.
  • Cross-Platform Reach. Users can install and use PWAs on any browser or device without restrictions.

TikTok could use its existing infrastructure to create a working PWA, ensuring continuity under restrictive measures.

Blocking Content Isn’t So Simple Anymore?

The TikTok ban aims to limit access, but the realities of digital technologies may complicate simplistic enforcements. Technologies like Progressive Web Apps (PWAs) and Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) allow users to bypass restrictions.  

This post is an exploratory one. We'll see how it plays out quite soon. Inevitably, it is going to be complex but fascinating to observe.

L.O.

I’ve had a busy last year working and publishing in cybersecurity and data protection, and I’m looking forward to new opportunities. If you could use expertise in cybersecurity, risk assessment, privacy (or technology) impact assessment, technology standards privacy regulations (GDPR and more), privacy engineering, and so. I’m open to new projects—contract, part-time, or full-time. Let’s connect—reach me at me@lukaszolejnik.com. I’m happy to contribute.