On April 19, Apple complied with an order from China’s internet regulator to remove Meta Platforms’ WhatsApp and Threads from its China app store, citing concerns over national security. The Cyberspace Administration of China directed the removal of these apps due to perceived security risks, as reported by a leading publication.
Apple emphasized its commitment to adhering to local laws in all the regions it operates, even when it disagrees with them. However, the apps remain available for download on other app stores worldwide.
This action follows a government initiative launched in 2023 to clean up unregistered or inactive apps from platforms like Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android. In August, Chinese authorities tightened regulations on mobile app developers, requiring them to register with the government by March 2024 to combat phone scams and financial fraud. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announced plans to supervise these registrations from April to June, targeting unregistered apps and enforcing mechanisms to handle illegal content.
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is intensifying its control over online content, extending to both domestic and foreign companies. This move aligns with broader efforts to restrict access to politically sensitive information.
Apple’s significant presence in China, its largest market outside the US, underscores the importance of complying with local regulations. CEO Tim Cook’s recent visit to China highlights the company’s commitment to operating within the legal framework of each country where it operates its app store.
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