TikTok's app has been banned from both Apple's App Store and Google's Play Store, leaving users who deleted the app or are setting up a new phone without access to the platform. However, there are still ways to access TikTok on your phone, albeit with some hoops to jump through.

For Android users, the solution is relatively straightforward. TikTok now offers its Android app for download outside of Google Play. Users can visit TikTok's website, scan a QR code, or download the app directly from the site. Once downloaded, users will need to adjust their phone's settings to allow the installation of unknown apps. After that, they can log in and access the platform as usual.

For iPhone users, the situation is more complicated. Since the app is no longer available on the App Store, users will need to access TikTok through their web browser. By visiting tiktok.com, users can access their feed, watch videos, and interact with others on the platform. They can even add an icon to their homescreen to access TikTok like a native app. However, users will not be able to create videos or access certain features.

One potential workaround for iPhone users is to use a VPN to "fool" their phone into thinking they are accessing the platform from outside the US. However, this method is complex and may not be foolproof. It involves creating a new Apple ID with a phone number from another country, installing a VPN that can identify the user as coming from that country, and setting the phone's region to match the VPN. Even then, there are no guarantees of success.

The ban on TikTok's app has caused frustration among users, particularly those who have moved to a new iPhone and are unable to transfer their existing TikTok app. According to Apple's support page, apps cannot be redownloaded if deleted or restored if you move to a new device. This has led to a surge in videos expressing frustration and disappointment.

The implications of the ban are still unclear, but it is likely to have significant consequences for TikTok's user base and the platform's overall popularity. As the situation continues to evolve, users will be watching closely to see how TikTok and its competitors respond.

In the meantime, users who want to access TikTok on their phones will need to rely on alternative methods. While these workarounds may not be ideal, they do offer a way for users to continue accessing the platform until a more permanent solution is found.