Apple may also be interested in entering the social media space, and has "expressed an interest" in purchasing TikTok, according to a report by Axios on Tuesday.
"Multiple sources tell me that Apple has expressed interest, albeit no sources inside of Apple, and that at least one other strategic has expressed interest," said Axios' Dan Primack.
"Yes, it would be an unusual deal for Apple, given that TikTok is a cross-platform app, and a bigger political headache than Tim Cook may want (both here and in China). But if anyone has the cash on hand..." the report said.
In a follow-up tweet, Primack described Apple's interest as "serious."
As we report in Axios Pro Rata today, Apple has expressed serious interest in buying TikTok. https://t.co/M0tmyoONui
— Dan Primack (@danprimack) August 4, 2020
Private equity is also circling, including some firms that don't have current stakes in ByteDance. But, I haven't heard one that's terribly optimistic that they can pull it off without finding an insider or major strategic with whom to partner, Primack added.
However, Primack said half an hour later on Twitter that Apple spokesperson tells Axios there are no discussions about buying TikTok and the company isn't interested.
State of play: Apple spokesperson tells Axios that there are no discussions about buying TikTok and the company isn't interested.
— Dan Primack (@danprimack) August 4, 2020
On Sunday, Microsoft confirmed that it has held talks with ByteDance to acquire its video-sharing app TikTok in the US and it intends to conclude the talks by September 15.
Microsoft confirms talks to buy TikTok, aims to finish deal by Sept 15
Microsoft's statement comes two days after media reports said that it was interested in acquiring the app. Soon after those reports emerged, US President Trump said that he opposed the idea and would move to ban the app in the US.
Microsoft said following a conversation between Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Trump, Microsoft is prepared to continue discussions to explore a purchase of TikTok in the United States.
Microsoft will move quickly to pursue discussions with ByteDance in a matter of weeks, and in any event completing these discussions no later than September 15, 2020, the company said.
