Former Activision CEO Kotick Considers Bid for TikTok Amid US Ban Threat

Bobby Kotick, the former chief executive of Activision Blizzard, is reportedly exploring a bid to acquire TikTok, amidst growing concerns over the app's future in the United States. The Wall Street Journal reports that Kotick has engaged in discussions with ByteDance, TikTok's parent company, regarding a potential purchase that could amount to hundreds of billions of dollars.

This development coincides with the introduction of a new bill in the U.S. Congress, which would mandate ByteDance to divest TikTok within six months or face prohibition from U.S. app stores. President Joe Biden has indicated his willingness to sign the bill into law should it pass both houses of Congress.

The Wall Street Journal further notes that Kotick and OpenAI CEO, Sam Altman, have discussed the possibility of joining forces to acquire TikTok.

Kotick's interest in TikTok emerges following his departure from Activision Blizzard after 30 years at the helm, culminating in Microsoft's acquisition of the company. During his tenure, Activision Blizzard faced allegations of fostering a culture of sexual harassment and discrimination. Kotick himself was accused of misconduct, allegations that Activision Blizzard has refuted as "misleading."

Lawmakers have voiced concerns regarding data privacy and TikTok's connections to China. The Biden administration has already banned the app on government-issued devices. Former President Donald Trump, who previously sought to ban TikTok, has since altered his stance, suggesting that a ban would benefit TikTok's competitors, such as Facebook and YouTube.

As the bill targeting TikTok gains momentum, the app has mobilized its American user base to advocate on its behalf, urging users to contact their elected representatives. The bill, having cleared a key committee last week, is anticipated to pass a House vote on Wednesday. If successful, it will then proceed to the Senate for consideration, followed by potential enactment into law by the President.