A third of EU residents use TikTok, which may soon face a ban in the US.

Yes, it's TikTok time again: the polarizing app is really popular on the Old Continent, too.

Despite uncertainty, the platform's popularity is increasing.

The company reports that it has over a billion users worldwide who access the platform monthly.

Earlier estimates suggested 170 million users in the United States as of 2024, but the actual number in 2025 could be higher or lower due to the potential ban.

The Trump administration is currently granting extensions on the TikTok issue. However, if a U.S.-based entity does not arrange a deal to acquire TikTok from ByteDance soon, the app could face a ban.

The divestment push stems from concerns among lawmakers and intelligence officials who fear that China could use TikTok to sway American politics and jeopardize national security. TikTok asserts that it is independent of the Chinese government and suggests that a forced sale might compromise the security of U.S. user data.

The possible ban has sparked considerable debate. Supporters of TikTok emphasize its significance for creativity, community development, and small business growth, noting its large American user base and the millions of creators and businesses that depend on it. Critics, however, point to its addictive nature, potential mental health risks, and the quality of its content.

Whether TikTok remains as it is or is sold, the decision will have an impact on users, influencers, advertisers, and policymakers.

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"Iconic Phones," a beautifully illustrated book exploring unique and memorable phones from the past two decades, is the product of over a year's work and will be available in a couple of months.