Microsoft reportedly in talks to acquire TikTok, Trump confirms

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed that Microsoft is in discussions to acquire TikTok, with several other parties also showing interest in the popular social media platform. Trump expressed hope for a "bidding war" over TikTok, adding that the app has garnered "great interest."

The push to sell TikTok's U.S. operations stems from longstanding national security concerns over its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. Both Trump and President Joe Biden have pressed ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations, citing data security risks. In August 2020, ByteDance began exploring potential buyers, with Microsoft emerging as an early contender.

These efforts have gained renewed attention recently. Trump signed an executive order last week to delay a TikTok ban imposed under the Biden administration, granting a 75-day reprieve for its 170 million U.S. users. ByteDance’s earlier negotiations with Microsoft were described by the tech giant’s former CEO as “the strangest thing.” Later, TikTok explored a partnership with Oracle, but that deal was never finalized.

Other names linked to potential bids include billionaire Frank McCourt, Canadian entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary, and YouTuber Jimmy Donaldson, also known as MrBeast, who expressed interest in acquiring the app after being approached by investors.

Speaking at a Republican gathering in Florida, Trump reiterated his concerns about Chinese involvement in TikTok’s U.S. operations. “If we can save all that voice and all the jobs, and China won’t be involved, we’ll see what happens,” he said.

Microsoft has not commented on the ongoing discussions, stating only that it has "nothing to share at this time." TikTok has also been contacted for comment. The outcome of the potential sale remains pivotal, as it could reshape the social media landscape while addressing U.S. national security concerns.