Bill Gates is wary of the Microsoft and TikTok deal

Microsoft announced that that company was looking to acquire parts of social media app TikTok’s operations in the US, Australia, Canada and New Zealand with a few reports even hinting at a complete purchase of all TikTok assets by Microsoft. Most reports seem to state that Microsoft is still in the ‘preliminary stage’ of the massive deal. But according to an exclusive interview on Wired, Bill Gates is not really a fan of the deal. 

Bill Gates is wary of the Microsoft and TikTok deal

In the interview, he says that the deal between Microsoft and TikTok is a ‘poison chalice’. Harsh words! This looks to be Microsoft’s first foray into the social media business and will face still and ruthless competition from companies like Facebook and Twitter. The whole deal is a bit strange and complicated and the interview does a good job of explaining Gate’s position on the issue. 

TikTok was almost banned in the US but disaster was averted when Microsoft made a pitch to buy the troubled social media app. The deadline for the entire process is September 15. Bill Gates does note that this is not a simple and straightforward plan. 

In other TikTok news, the app was banned in India along with 58 other Chinese-based apps. In fact, Japan has been considering banning the controversial app as well. If you’re feeling the loss of TikTok, you can also check out Instagram Reels, which is an alternative to TikTok.