Apple has complied with a directive from the Chinese government to remove Meta Platforms‘ WhatsApp and Threads from its China App Store, citing concerns over national security.
While other Meta apps like Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger remain accessible, the removal of WhatsApp and Threads underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by foreign tech companies operating in China.
The exact reasons behind the security concerns regarding WhatsApp and Threads are not immediately clear.
Apple, in an email statement, confirmed the removals were ordered by the Cyberspace Administration of China due to national security considerations.
Despite any disagreement, Apple stated its obligation to adhere to local laws in countries where it operates.
Meta declined to comment on the matter, directing inquiries back to Apple. The Cyberspace Administration of China did not respond immediately to requests for clarification.
Apple noted that WhatsApp and Threads remain available for download on its other app storefronts. Chinese users with iCloud accounts from other countries can still access these apps by downloading them from Apple’s international App Stores.
Some industry experts speculate that the removals may be linked to a new regulation implemented in August, requiring all apps in China to register with the government or face removal.
The deadline for compliance was March’s end, with the regulations officially taking effect on April 1.
This isn’t the first time Apple has complied with Chinese regulations affecting its App Store. In 2017, The New York Times app was removed for violating local regulations amid increasing news censorship.
Last year, Apple removed several ChatGPT-like apps during Beijing’s formulation of local regulations on AI services.
The Wall Street Journal first reported the removal of WhatsApp and Threads from the China App Store. This move further highlights the challenges faced by foreign tech companies addressing China’s regulatory landscape while balancing global principles and local regulations.
