Apple Removes WhatsApp and Threads from China App Store at Government Request

Apple has removed WhatsApp and Threads from its application store in China at the request of the authorities. The Cyberspace Administration of China ordered the removal of these applications for national security reasons, according to Apple. Despite the absence of WhatsApp in China, the app has been largely replaced by WeChat, which offers messaging services and other features like online payments.

China has strict rules when it comes to monitoring the internet and media, censoring content that criticizes state policy or could lead to discontent. Users in China face restrictions on accessing foreign websites, applications, and social networks without tools like VPNs.

While Apple, the CAC, and the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Technology have not responded to requests for comment, Apps like Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Threads were not available in the Chinese version of the App Store on Friday. However, these apps remain downloadable from App Stores outside of mainland China.

Apple products are popular in China where the company refrains from taking positions on sensitive issues or offending Chinese authorities. The CEO of Apple has had meetings with senior Chinese officials in the past.

In addition to this issue with WhatsApp and Threads, there are various topics covered in a wide range of content provided after initial article such as robotics, virtuality, financial responsibility, online gambling