Former Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin is reportedly considering partnering with an artificial intelligence (AI) firm to make a bid to acquire the popular video-sharing app TikTok. Congressional concerns over TikTok’s ownership by China-based ByteDance have raised national security issues, prompting Mnuchin to develop a strategic plan.
Mnuchin aims to rebuild TikTok’s algorithm in the United States to address these security concerns. By revamping the algorithm, which is responsible for content curation and data collection, Mnuchin hopes to alleviate worries about potential surveillance. To achieve this goal, Mnuchin is looking to collaborate with AI firms with expertise in algorithm development.
Oracle, led by billionaire Trump donor Larry Ellison, has been suggested as a plausible partner for Mnuchin in this endeavor. Oracle’s previous negotiations with TikTok and its commitment to hosting US users’ data could make it a fitting collaborator. However, Oracle has not confirmed its involvement in Mnuchin’s bid.
Microsoft is another contender in the race to acquire TikTok, having come close to finalizing a deal in 2020. With its significant investment in OpenAI, Microsoft could be a strong competitor in the potential acquisition.
Overall, Mnuchin’s plan to rebuild TikTok’s algorithm on American soil aims to address national security concerns and navigate China’s export regulations. The involvement of companies like Oracle and Microsoft could reshape the future of TikTok and the social media landscape.
