Since the United States is about to ban TikTok and along with it CapCut millions of desperate users are looking for ways to stay on the platform. Since the upcoming ban stem from national security concerns, leading to legislation that prohibits U.S.-based service providers from supporting TikTok. This means that Apple and Google will remove TikTok from their app stores, preventing new downloads and updates. So in this guide, we'll show you how to keep using TikTok and how to download and update it once it is no longer available on Google Play and iOS in the US.

Takeaways:

  1. TikTok App alternatives to switch to after the ban.
  2. How to keep using TikTok after the ban.
  3. The best VPNs to use for TikTok in the US.

The Best VPNS for TikTok to Access TikTok in the US

Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) function by routing your internet connection through servers in different locations, effectively masking your real IP address and making it appear as though you are accessing the internet from another country. This is currently the best option you have to continue accessing TikTok in the US after the ban. However not all VPNs are equal, and you should avoid free ones at all costs as they quite often have major privacy and security risks.

Recommended VPNs:

  • Proton VPN – Known for its strong privacy policies, no-logs policy, and robust security features, making it a solid option for maintaining access to TikTok.

  • Mullvad – Highly regarded for its anonymity-focused service, it does not require an email address to sign up and offers excellent security features.

While these VPNs will allow access to TikTok, they cannot prevent the inherent issues arising from the lack of app updates. Over time, the app may experience reduced functionality or become incompatible with newer operating system versions. So you'll need to know how to sideload TikTok on your Android and iOS devices.

How to Install TikTok on Android without using Google Play (Sideload TikTok)

As an Android user, sideloading apps is super easy and something you can do in a few minutes. Simply download the TikTok APK file from APKmirror then find it in the downloads folder on your device and install it. Most devices will require you to enable app installs from third-party sources so accept this change when prompted. If you aren't sure about the process here's a quick guide. Otherwise, you can search your Android version on YouTube and go through the steps.

How to Install TikTok on iOS without using the App Store (Sideload TikTok on iOS)

Unfortunately, things on iPhone are a little more complicated. In order to install TikTok without using the App Store, you'll need to Jailbreak your device first. This process will differ a little based on your iOS version and phone so follow the process required for your specific device configuration. Then install TikTok via the jailbreak.

Alternative Apps to TikTok

If the TikTok ban remains in place, users will need to look at alternative platforms for short-form video content. Here are some options on the table. Just remember that all these platforms run different algorithms so success on TikTok might not translate well.

  • Instagram Reels: A built-in feature within Instagram that offers similar short-form video content with a large user base.

  • YouTube Shorts: A rapidly growing section of YouTube that provides a familiar vertical video experience.

  • Snapchat Spotlight: A feature within Snapchat that curates and promotes short-form videos from users.

  • Triller: A music-driven social platform that focuses on video content, often compared to TikTok.

  • Clapper: A platform designed for creators looking for more community-driven and monetization-friendly options.

Legalities of Circumventing the TikTok Ban.

Attempting to circumvent the TikTok ban using a VPN may also carry legal risks. According to legal experts, using a VPN to access a banned application could be considered a violation of U.S. law, potentially resulting in fines or other penalties. While enforcement details remain uncertain, users should be aware of these potential consequences. However, the beauty of using a VPN (one of the above listed) means that getting caught is slim to none.