TikTok Deal Gives U.S. Control Over Board and Algorithm, White House Confirms

The White House has confirmed that an emerging deal with China over TikTok will place control of the platform’s U.S. operations—including its board and algorithm—firmly in American hands. Officials say the arrangement represents a critical step toward resolving years of political battles and security concerns surrounding the popular app.

U.S. Majority on TikTok’s Board

Under the proposed terms, six of the seven seats on TikTok’s new U.S. oversight board will be filled by Americans. This ensures that decision-making power lies with U.S. representatives, limiting the influence of parent company ByteDance, based in Beijing. Oracle, the U.S. technology giant, will oversee TikTok’s infrastructure and safeguard user data, addressing fears of potential surveillance or misuse.

The Algorithm at the Center

Perhaps the most significant part of the deal is the transfer of control over TikTok’s recommendation algorithm—the engine behind its addictive video feed. For years, lawmakers and national security experts have warned that foreign ownership of the algorithm could allow subtle manipulation of content, censorship, or propaganda. By shifting oversight to the U.S., the Biden administration argues, the platform will be better aligned with American values of transparency and user safety.

Legislative Context

The negotiations are the direct result of 2024 legislation that required ByteDance to either divest TikTok’s U.S. operations or face an outright ban. While deadlines have been delayed to allow for talks, pressure has mounted on both Washington and Beijing to finalize a framework before enforcement begins next year.

President Donald Trump has described the discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping as constructive but acknowledged that full agreement has not yet been signed. Still, the White House expressed confidence that the “deal is done” and awaits only final signatures.

Reactions and Concerns

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters call it a balanced compromise—protecting U.S. national security while allowing TikTok’s 170 million American users to keep their favorite app. They argue that removing ByteDance’s direct influence over data and algorithmic recommendations is a crucial safeguard.

Skeptics, however, caution that the real challenge lies in enforcement. Questions remain about how audits will be conducted, whether ByteDance could retain hidden control, and how resistant China may be to losing access to its technology. Chinese officials have already warned the U.S. to ensure a “fair business environment” for its companies.

The Road Ahead

If finalized, the deal will mark one of the most significant regulatory interventions in a social media platform’s governance to date. It could serve as a model for future policies on foreign-owned digital platforms, balancing open markets with national security imperatives.

For now, the TikTok saga underscores a broader reality: the intersection of technology, geopolitics, and security is shaping the future of global social media. Whether the deal holds under scrutiny—or faces new political headwinds—remains to be seen.