Apple Removes WhatsApp and Threads from Chinese App Store at government’s request
Apple today removed popular messaging apps WhatsApp and Threads, both owned by Meta, from the Chinese App Store. The removal comes at the request of Chinese authorities, who claim the apps pose a threat to national security.
The move briefly follows the removal of other foreign-made messaging apps, including Telegram and Signal, from the Chinese App Store. The Chinese government has long been known for its strict control over Internet use within the country, and these recent moves are seen as a further hardening of that policy.
Apple confirmed in a statement to Reuters news agency that it removed the apps at the request of the Chinese Cyberspace Administration. “We are obliged to follow the laws in the countries where we operate, even if we disagree,” Apple said. However, the company did not address the specific security concerns cited by Chinese authorities.
The removal of WhatsApp and Threads will likely have a significant impact on millions of Chinese users who relied on the apps for communication. However, it is unclear to what extent this measure will be effective in limiting use of the apps, as many users in China already use VPN connections to access blocked websites and services.
The Chinese government’s increasing pressure on foreign technology companies is causing concern among experts who warn about the increasing fragmentation of the Internet and the restriction of online freedom.
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