Most users choose CapCut to edit TikTok videos because it offers more TikTok-optimized templates. However, both apps were banned in the US after January 19, 2025.
Here, I don’t want to delve into the complex and ever-changing politics; I just want to find a way to continue using CapCut and TikTok. Luckily, there are several ways to do this.
Why Can’t You Download CapCut?
CapCut was banned in the United States, users could not connect to its servers, which disabled most features and blocked direct uploads to TikTok.
This ban did not last for very long; on January 21, 2025, access was restored across mobile, desktop, and web versions. During the ban, people who already had the app could still use it, but new users were unable to download it.
This is a restriction that applies only to the United States; in addition to being unable to download, you may also be unable to update normally.
How to Download CapCut After the TikTok Ban?
Under normal circumstances, you can download CapCut from Google Play and the Apple App Store; however, you currently cannot find it in the stores.
Therefore, you can try using a VPN to bypass regional restrictions.
Method 1: Use a VPN to Download CapCut
Steps:
- Choose a Reliable VPN: Select a VPN service with servers in countries where CapCut is available
- Connect to Appropriate Server: Connect to a server in a country without CapCut restrictions.
- Clear App Store Data: For Android, go to Settings > Apps > Google Play Store > Storage > Clear Data. For iOS, you may need to temporarily change your Apple ID region.
- Access App Store: Open your device’s app store while connected through the VPN.
- Download Normally: Search for and download CapCut as you normally would.
The effectiveness of this method varies.
This method lets you download CapCut, but you might have trouble logging in or using the app if your account is linked to a U.S. bank card.
Method 2: Change App Store Region
When restrictions are not particularly severe, this method can be used to bypass regional restrictions without the need for a VPN.
On Android:
- Use a new Google account
- Set region during account creation
- Access Play Store with that account
On iPhone:
- Go to Settings
- Tap your Apple ID
- Select “Media & Purchases”
- Change country/region
- Choose a country where CapCut is available
This method is suitable for users who do not have a VPN, and you also do not need to worry that using a VPN to circumvent bans might violate the Terms of Service.
Method 3: Third-Party App Stores
Alternative app marketplaces sometimes host applications that are restricted in official stores:
- Amazon Appstore: Available for Android devices, though CapCut’s presence isn’t guaranteed.
- Samsung Galaxy Store: For Samsung device users.
- Huawei AppGallery: Particularly useful for users in regions where Google services are restricted.
- Aptoide: An independent Android marketplace with community-maintained apps.
These platforms have their own review processes and may not always have the latest versions of CapCut.
Method 4: Download CapCut APK
If it’s not in Google Play, APK is your best option.
Steps:
- Enable Unknown Sources: Go to Settings > Security (or Privacy) and enable “Install Unknown Apps” or “Unknown Sources” for your browser or file manager.
- Find the latest version: Download the latest version of Capcut or Capcut Pro Mod for PC from capcutmoda.
- Download and Install: Download the APK file, then open it from your file manager to begin installation.
This method provides a stable, free update for CapCut that works in any region. Access CapCut’s premium features for free.
If you cannot access the capcutmoda website, you can try using a VPN.
In Which Country Is CapCut Not Banned?
As of now, CapCut is available in most countries, including the United Kingdom, Most of Europe, and Southeast Asia
When using a VPN, you can choose the Southeast Asia region, where CapCut and TikTok have no restrictions.
Countries Where Restrictions May Apply:
- India: CapCut is permanently banned in India.
- Some regions with strict data regulations
Even in restricted countries, APK or VPN methods usually work.But to avoid login trouble, do not use information from banned regions for your account.
Understanding the TikTok Ban and Its Impact on CapCut
After learning how to bypass the restrictions to download CapCut, let’s talk about why the TikTok ban restricts CapCut.
TikTok and CapCut are both products of the Chinese company ByteDance. The US isn’t targeting TikTok itself, but rather the Chinese company behind it. Therefore, not only TikTok and CapCut, but all ByteDance products have been affected.
The relationship between TikTok and CapCut is more than just corporate—it’s functional and strategic. CapCut was specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with TikTok, offering templates, trends, and export options tailored for the platform. When the U.S. government began targeting TikTok over data privacy concerns and potential national security risks, CapCut inevitably became collateral damage.
Although the restrictions are not too severe now, strict restrictions still exist in some areas.
TikTok and CapCut are important daily apps, and no one wants them to be restricted.
Common Questions from Users
Q1: Is it safe to use CapCut mods or APKs from third-party sites?
A: Downloading from trusted sources can greatly reduce risk. If you are concerned, you can use antivirus software to scan and download CapCut package.
Q2: Will using a VPN to download CapPut get me in legal trouble?
A: In most jurisdictions, using a VPN itself isn’t illegal. The legal consequences typically involve account suspension rather than criminal charges, though this varies by country. Using a VPN is usually safe as long as you don’t do anything illegal.
Q3: Why does CapCut work offline even when banned?
A: Users who had CapCut installed before the bans can often continue using it offline or with airplane mode enabled. This is because the app’s core functionality doesn’t require constant server communication.
Q4: Are there good alternatives to CapCut that aren’t facing bans?
A: Yes, several capable alternatives exist:
- Adobe Premiere Rush: Cross-platform, professional-grade, though subscription-based.
- KineMaster: Robust mobile editor with a free tier, but it’s not as good as Capcut i think.
- Vivavideo:It offers a large number of special effects, but all of them require payment.
