TikTok Removed? Download It via Scarlet iOS

TikTok, the widely popular short video-sharing app, faced a nationwide ban in the USA on January 19, 2025. Following this order, major app stores like Apple’s App Store and Google Play removed TikTok from their platforms, leaving millions of users unable to download or update the app.

For Android users, downloading TikTok from other sources is pretty simple due to their device’s flexibility. However, real concern is for iPhone and iPad users, as installing apps outside the official App Store can be tricky.

Thankfully, there’s a solution for iOS users: Scarlet iOS. You can download TikTok and other apps that are no longer available on the official store with this alternative app store. In this guide, I’ll explain step-by-step how to install TikTok using Scarlet iOS and share everything you need to know about this method.

The Story Behind TikTok’s Ban in the USA

The ban on TikTok has a long backstory. In August 2020, then-President Donald Trump signed an executive order that blocked transactions between TikTok and American businesses. Later, ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, sold its US operations to an American company to comply with the order.

In December 2022, during President Joe Biden’s administration, the “No TikTok on Government Devices Act” was passed. This law prohibited government employees, including those in federal and intelligence agencies, from using the app. Even before the nationwide ban, several US states had already imposed restrictions on TikTok at their respective levels.

The decision to ban TikTok in the USA is tied to several factors, which are detailed below:

1. National Security Concerns: In recent years, tensions between the US and China—two global superpowers—have escalated significantly. TikTok, a product of ByteDance, a Chinese company, has raised multiple national security concerns for the US government. One key issue is how TikTok handles user data, particularly with its parent company based in China.
2. Data Privacy Risks: The US government has accused TikTok of collecting excessive amounts of user data, much of which is deemed unnecessary. This has sparked fears over the potential misuse of personal information.
3. Political Tensions: This ban is not just about security or privacy. It also reflects the growing trade and technology-related political tensions between the USA and China, which were particularly heightened during Donald Trump’s presidency. Although the CIA found no evidence suggesting that the Chinese government accessed TikTok data or used the app to spy on US users, the political climate has made the app’s presence a contentious issue. (Source: Forbes Report)

Impact of TikTok’s Removal from the Official App Store on Users

Since January 19, millions of TikTok users in the USA can no longer download or update the app through official app stores. This has created significant challenges for various user groups:

• Content Creators: Content creators and brands that depend on TikTok as a core platform will face many hurdles in maintaining their presence and audience engagement.
• General Users: While regular users might still download and install TikTok through external sources, they won’t be able to keep up with timely updates. This means missing out on new features, important security fixes, and performance improvements.
• Brand Collaborations: Many businesses that relied on TikTok for marketing will experience a noticeable drop in their reach and engagement, which will impact their campaigns and overall strategy.

What Is Scarlet iOS?

Scarlet iOS is an alternative app installer that allows users to download apps, games, and emulators unavailable on the official App Store. It offers a simple interface and useful features, making it easier to access apps that have been removed or restricted.

Unlike many other third-party app stores, Scarlet iOS provides:

• Direct Downloads: Install apps directly on your device without needing a computer.
• Ease of Use: A straightforward installation process.
• Accessibility: No need to jailbreak your iPhone to install Scarlet.

How to Download TikTok Using Scarlet iOS

Here’s a step-by-step guide to downloading and installing TikTok through Scarlet iOS:

1. Download the TikTok IPA File:

Get the TikTok IPA file from trusted sources, such as:

• Scarlet iOS official website
• AltStore community repositories
• iOS Ninja (a reliable IPA provider)
• CokernutX

2. Install Scarlet iOS:

• Open ScarletApps.com on your iPhone or iPad.
• Download the Scarlet iOS app and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

3. Trust Scarlet iOS:

• Go to Settings > General > VPN & Device Management on your device.
• Locate the Scarlet iOS profile and select the “Trust” option.

4. Sideload the TikTok IPA File:

• Open the Scarlet iOS app.
• Tap the “+” icon and choose the TikTok IPA file you downloaded.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.

5. Install and Use TikTok:

• Once the installation is done, TikTok will appear on your home screen.
• Open TikTok and log in to your account to start using it.

Important Note for Scarlet iOS Installation

If you encounter any issues while installing Scarlet iOS, you can try multiple methods. The official website, Scarletapps.com, provides detailed instructions for all these methods.

• Direct Installation: Follow the steps to install Scarlet directly on your iPhone or iPad.
• Using a Computer: You can also install it through a computer using tools like Sideloadly.
• For EU Users: If you’re in the EU, you can directly install Scarlet on iOS 18.3 beta versions.
• Custom Certificate: Another option is to use a custom certificate for installation.
• eSign Setup: If you need help with eSign, a complete guide is available on the website.

After the ban, you’ll need a VPN to use TikTok. Check out this guide on VPN for iPhone and iPad.