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Apple has removed WhatsApp and Threads from its App Store in China, following orders from the local government. This removal is related to concerns over national security issues.
Meanwhile, Telegram and Signal were also removed from the store on Friday (19/4/2024), according to app tracking companies Qimai and AppMagic.
“The Chinese Cyber Space Administration ordered the removal of these apps from the Chinese storefront based on their concerns over national security,” Apple said in a statement via email, citing Reuters, on Saturday (20/4/2024).
“We are obligated to comply with the laws in the countries where we operate, even though we may disagree,” the statement said.
The removal of these four apps indicates a growing intolerance from the Chinese government towards at least some foreign online messaging services that are outside of its control. It also signifies a reduced leeway for Apple in China.
However, other Meta apps including Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger remain available for download, according to a Reuters check on Friday.
Many other popular apps developed by Western companies including YouTube and X are also available.
It’s not yet clear how WhatsApp or Threads could pose security issues for Chinese authorities. Meta declined to comment and referred questions to Apple. ########
Apple did not respond to requests for comment on Signal and Telegram. Representatives from both companies did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The Chinese Cyber Space Administration also did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
None of these four apps are widely used in China. WeChat remains the dominant service so far.
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