Phones with TikTok app installed have become highly sought-after gadgets in the US

The recent ban on TikTok in the United States has sent shockwaves through the tech world, but for some iPhone users, it has presented an unexpected opportunity: cash. As the app disappeared from the App Store, leaving users unable to download or reinstall it, a bizarre market emerged, with iPhones already equipped with TikTok fetching exorbitant prices.

One eBay listing even saw an iPhone 15 with TikTok and CapCut installed sell for a staggering $13,997. While the actual selling price might have been lower, it’s clear that the presence of the Chinese-owned app has transformed these devices into hot commodities.

But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. I’ve dug deeper into the eBay listings and discovered even more outrageous prices. A used unlocked Samsung Galaxy Note 20 Ultra 5G with TikTok and CapCut installed is currently listed for a mind-boggling $77,000! And if you thought that was crazy, an unlocked Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max (256GB) with TikTok app installed is priced at a jaw-dropping $50,000. These figures are simply insane, and they underscore the sheer desperation (or perhaps, the sheer madness) of the situation.

Amid this frenzy, a familiar face has entered the fray: GameStop. The video game retailer, known for its aggressive trade-in program, has capitalized on the situation with a cheeky social media post: “Have TikTok? GameStop will buy your phone for cash or trade credit!” The image accompanying this message shows a hand holding an iPhone with the TikTok logo prominently displayed on the screen, a subtle yet powerful reminder of the app’s current scarcity.

While the move by GameStop might seem opportunistic, it serves as a clear reflection of the current market dynamics.

Amidst all the chaos, there’s movement behind the scenes. Bill Ford, a board member at ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok, recently revealed that they are in “active discussions” about a deal to keep the app operational in the United States. Ford emphasized that a resolution is in “everyone’s interest” and that negotiations are ongoing between ByteDance, the Chinese government, and the U.S. government.

This development comes after President Trump extended the deadline for the TikTok ban, giving the company more time to negotiate a solution. While a sale remains a possibility, Ford hinted at potential alternatives that could satisfy U.S. concerns without requiring a complete divestiture of the U.S. operations.

Despite these efforts, the future of TikTok in the U.S. remains uncertain. Legal challenges and political pressure continue to complicate the situation.

GameStop’s willingness to capitalize on this unique situation highlights the adaptability of the company and its ability to recognize and react to unexpected market trends. Whether this trend will continue or fade away remains to be seen, but for now, iPhone users with TikTok can revel in their newfound bargaining power.