TikTok was thriving in the U.S., even before a joint venture saved it from a potential ban

January 23, 2026

TL;DR

TikTok, owned by ByteDance, was the second-most-downloaded app in the U.S. in 2025, defying a near-ban.
Other Chinese apps like CapCut, Temu, and Shein also performed well in U.S. app stores.
Temu ranked seventh and Shein was the top downloaded app in the apparel shopping category in 2025.
OpenAI's ChatGPT was the most downloaded app in the U.S. in 2025.
U.S. consumers favor Chinese apps for their algorithms, affordability, and convenience.
TikTok faced uncertainty and a potential ban due to U.S. national security concerns regarding data access by the Chinese government.
Despite challenges, TikTok expanded its e-commerce business, TikTok Shop, with revenues rising.
Temu and Shein adjusted to U.S. tariffs by negotiating lower prices and expanding supply networks beyond China.
The success of these apps is attributed to their attention-driven platforms and algorithms, shifting demand creation towards entertainment and constant digital presence.
Regulators have raised concerns about data privacy and national security risks associated with these apps.
American consumers prioritize affordability and desired products over an app's country of origin.

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