Apple has removed WhatsApp and Threads, messaging apps owned by Meta, from its China App Store following an order from the country’s internet regulator. This move highlights a potential widening tech gap between China and the West, coming amidst Apple’s declining iPhone sales in the region.
While both WhatsApp and Threads were already inaccessible in China due to the Great Firewall, users could previously download them through the App Store. However, Apple complied with a recent order from the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), citing national security concerns as the reason for their removal.
The specific details regarding the national security risks posed by these apps remain unclear. This removal coincides with heightened tensions between the US and China on trade, technology, and national security. The US has previously threatened a ban on TikTok due to similar security concerns.
Unlike TikTok, which enjoys immense popularity in the US, WhatsApp and Threads haven’t gained significant traction within China. The dominant messaging platform in the country is WeChat, owned by the Chinese tech giant Tencent.
This app removal comes as Apple…
Bukola Amosun
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https://www.techcityng.com/apple-removes-whatsapp-and-threads-from-china-app-store-over-security-concerns/
