UPDATE: January 23, 2026
Based on news outlet reports, The TikTok deal has officially closed. Oracle, Silver Lake, MGX, and other U.S. investors now own 45% of TikTok’s U.S. operations, with ByteDance keeping 19.9%.
Here’s what creators need to know:
- You can keep using TikTok the same way you do now
- Oracle will retrain the algorithm using only U.S. user data
- No immediate changes to expect
- Over time, the algorithm may work differently as it’s rebuilt for U.S. audiences
The platform will continue to function as usual while Oracle implements new data protections and security measures. Content creation and engagement should remain unaffected in the near term. Bottom line? Keep creating. The platform isn’t going anywhere, but staying diversified across multiple channels remains your best strategy for long-term success.
The Backstory of the TikTok Ban
At its core, the TikTok ban stems from concerns over national security. U.S. lawmakers worry that TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, could potentially share user data with the Chinese government. This has heightened geopolitical tensions and calls for greater data privacy protections.
While TikTok denied any wrongdoing and took steps to localize U.S. data storage, these measures did little to ease concerns in Washington, leading to the Supreme Court’s unanimous January 17 decision to move forward with the ban. Hours before the ban was set to take effect on January 19, the platform pulled the plug in the U.S., making it inaccessible to roughly 170 million users for 12 hours.
Shortly after being sworn into office on January 20, President Trump, who initially set the framework for a TikTok ban in August 2020, signed an executive order granting ByteDance a 75-day extension to comply with the law and find an American buyer for the app by April 5 or risk being banned permanently. That deadline was extended several more times, with the most recent extension originally set to expire on December 16.
Moving Forward: How to Pivot Your Social Media Strategy as a Content Creator
You might be asking yourself: Should you pivot to Instagram Reels, Facebook Reels, YouTube Shorts, or something else altogether? Which one makes it easier to go viral?
The good news? There are numerous platforms ready to amplify your content—here are some upsides to each:
Instagram and Facebook
Instagram Reels and Facebook Reels offer excellent alternatives for short-form video content. Both platforms have robust analytics to help you refine your strategy. If TikTok’s dance trends work for you, they can thrive here too.
YouTube Shorts
With its emphasis on short-form content, YouTube Shorts is a great option for you to pivot your content and grow your audience. Its vast user base and searchability mean your videos can reach new viewers organically.
Email Lists and Personal Websites
Building an email list or launching a website ensures you “own” your audience. No algorithm tweaks will change that. Tools like Substack or Squarespace can help you connect directly with followers.
Emerging Platforms
Keep an eye on platforms like BlueSky, Triller, and Clapper. Early adopters often gain traction as these platforms grow.
Tips for Transitioning to Other Platforms
- Repurpose Your TikTok Content: Adapt your existing videos for platforms like Reels or Shorts. A slight tweak in format can breathe new life into your work.
- Track Your Followers’ Movements: Analytics tools can show where your audience is headed—meet them there!
- Communicate Clearly: Keep your community in the loop. Share updates about your transition so they know where to find you.
How Mavely Supports Creators
At Mavely, we understand how critical this moment could be for you and your creator business. That’s why we’re here to help you pivot with ease:
- Diversify Your Income Streams: Our tools are designed to help you diversify your influencer platforms and monetize beyond social media. We’ve got the low down on whether a diversification strategy is right for you.
- Expand Your Reach: Explore how to leverage our platform for connecting with new audiences.
- Stay Resilient in the Face of Change: We equip creators with the tools, resources, and insights they need to adapt, diversify and thrive in an ever-changing social media landscape.
Mavely’s top creators have successfully navigated platform changes—and you can too!
Change is challenging, but creators are some of the most adaptable people around. Use this moment as an opportunity to expand your reach, build stronger connections, and explore new ways to share your creativity. TikTok’s future may be uncertain, but your creativity and ability to inspire are not.
Most importantly, we want you to remember that Mavely’s got your back. Let’s embrace the pivot together.
Ready to take the next step? Explore Mavely’s tools and upcoming webinars to perfect your content creation game no matter which platform you use. You’ve got this!
