iPhones with TikTok still installed on them are being listed on eBay for as much as $10,000.
This phenomenon, while shocking, sheds light on a larger issue: society’s deep-rooted addiction to social media and the fear of missing out (FOMO) that drives such extreme behaviors.
This unusual trend seems to have been sparked by growing bans and restrictions on TikTok in several countries.
Governments in places like India, Afghanistan, and parts of the U.S. have either partially or fully banned the app, citing national security concerns tied to its parent company, ByteDance, which is based in China.
Additionally, fears about data privacy have led some regions to propose restrictions, leaving users scrambling for ways to keep the app accessible.
It is within this context that these exorbitantly priced iPhones have entered the market.
Sellers on platforms like eBay have identified a niche group of desperate TikTok enthusiasts willing to pay astronomical sums for devices with the app pre-installed.
In some cases, these listings are targeting users in areas where TikTok has been removed from app stores or where its functionality is otherwise restricted.
While such devices may seem like lifelines for avid TikTok users, their steep price tags are a clear indicator of just how valuable social media has become in today’s culture.
The fact that people are willing to spend upwards of $10,000 for a phone with TikTok demonstrates the extent to which many are addicted to social media.
TikTok, in particular, has been described by experts as one of the most addictive platforms due to its algorithm-driven feed of short, engaging videos tailored to individual preferences.
This endless scroll of content can hijack the brain’s reward system, making it difficult for users to log off.
For some, the thought of losing access to TikTok triggers severe anxiety, as the app has become a primary source of entertainment, connection, and even income for influencers and content creators.
