TNW 370: TikTok Might Shut Off Its US App - CES 2025, Windows 10 Office EOS
Jan 16, 2025
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Kaya Yurieff, a reporter for The Information, discusses the looming shutdown of TikTok in the U.S., diving into the national security debates surrounding the app and its impact on users. Ben Wilson from Windows Central highlights the end of Microsoft 365 support for Windows 10, set for October 2025, urging listeners to upgrade to ensure security. Additionally, the show explores cutting-edge smart home technology unveiled at CES 2025, emphasizing innovations in interoperability and robotic cleaning devices.
CES 2025 highlighted a surge in smart home devices, particularly smart locks leveraging the new ALEARO standard for enhanced user experience.
TikTok faces imminent U.S. shutdown due to national security concerns, urging users to consider alternative platforms for social interactions.
Microsoft's end of support for Office apps on Windows 10 by October 2025 prompts users to explore upgrades and alternative solutions.
Deep dives
Key Highlights from CES 2025
The recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES) unveiled a growing emphasis on smart home technology, specifically highlighting the rise of smart locks. Jennifer Patterson-Tui noted a surge in smart lock innovations, driven by the introduction of a new standard called ALEARO, which enables users to unlock doors using various smartphones and wearables. This standard aims to simplify access, allowing for touchless entries through technologies such as NFC and ultra-wideband, which enhances the user experience. As the popularity of smart locks increases, their reliability is expected to grow, potentially driving broader adoption among consumers.
Challenges Facing TikTok's Future
TikTok is currently navigating significant challenges, primarily stemming from national security concerns linked to its parent company, ByteDance. Lawmakers fear that sensitive user data could be accessed by the Chinese government, which has prompted discussions of a potential ban in the U.S. TikTok has long denied any wrongdoing, yet the uncertainty about its future remains. As the situation evolves, the platform might have to implement shutdown procedures affecting users, creating a scenario where existing TikTok users would face disruptions in accessing the app.
The End of Windows 10 and Its Impact
Microsoft's recent announcement about discontinuing support for Office apps on Windows 10 by October 14 raises concerns for users still relying on this operating system. Although functionality will persist post-support, users may encounter notable performance and security risks that come with using unsupported software. Microsoft recommends that users upgrade to Windows 11 for ongoing support and enhanced features, pushing users towards modern management solutions in business settings. The transition is complicated by hardware requirements, particularly for users with older machines that may not meet the specifications necessary for an upgrade.
Emerging Smart Home Interfaces
CES 2025 showcased a variety of new smart home interface designs, including advanced control panels compatible with Matter. These devices, featuring touchscreen displays, allow users to interact seamlessly with smart home systems, bridging the gap between numerous device manufacturers. Companies like Akara and Shelly are leading the charge by developing interfaces that will integrate with various smart home technologies, extending usability across ecosystems. This intuitive approach is aimed at making smart home technology more accessible, particularly for users unfamiliar with complex setups.
Exploring Alternatives in a Shifting Tech Landscape
As TikTok faces potential bans and Microsoft winds down support for Windows 10, users are encouraged to explore alternative platforms and solutions. TikTok's users may need to transition to competing platforms for video sharing and social interaction in light of the impending service disruptions. Meanwhile, individuals and businesses still reliant on Windows 10 might consider alternative office solutions or utilize web-based applications to continue operating effectively. This evolving landscape emphasizes the importance of adaptability and awareness within the fast-paced tech environment.
A whole slew of smart products were unveiled at CES 2025 this year. Could this year be the year of smart home devices? TikTok is inching closer to being shut off in the US in a few days. And following Microsoft's announcement of end of support for Windows 10, the company announced it will no longer offer support for the Office 365 apps on Windows 10 after October 14th, 2025.
Jennifer Pattison Tuohy has returned from CES 2025! She spent her time at the convention checking out all things smart home devices on the show floor and shares with Mikah Sargent some of her favorite devices she covered for The Verge.
Kaya Yurieff of The Information joins Mikah to talk about the latest on the imminent shutdown of TikTok in the US that is scheduled to happen on Sunday, January 19th.
And Ben Wilson from Windows Central stops by to talk about Microsoft's announcement that the Office 365 apps on Windows 10 will no longer be offered support after October 14th, 2025, coinciding with the end of support for the operating system.