Thursday, 24 April 2025
28.5 C
Singapore
33.3 C
Thailand
20.7 C
Indonesia
29.4 C
Philippines

Apple withdraws Meta’s WhatsApp and Threads from the China app store amid stricter regulations

Apple removes Meta’s WhatsApp and Threads from its China App Store, complying with the country’s strict internet regulations.

Meta Platforms’ messaging app WhatsApp and social media service Threads have been removed from Apple’s App Store in mainland China. This action aligns with Apple’s ongoing adjustments to comply with the country’s stringent internet rules.

China tightens its grip on internet applications

In a recent search conducted by the Post, it was discovered that both WhatsApp, the globally dominant messaging platform with over 2 billion monthly users as of 2023, and Threads, which has rapidly gained popularity in China since its launch last July, have been erased from Apple’s domestic App Store. The removal was mandated by Chinese regulatory authorities due to national security concerns, Apple confirmed.

Apple expressed its commitment to adhering to local laws, stating, “We are obligated to follow the laws in the countries where we operate, even when we disagree.” The company further noted that these applications remain accessible on other storefronts outside mainland China.

Apple navigates complex regulatory waters

This isn’t the first time Apple has had to navigate the complexities of Chinese internet regulations. In response to changing policies, Apple updated its guidelines for Chinese app developers last October to include the government’s new requirement that all domestic apps be licenced before being made available on the mainland App Store. This regulation mandates that apps use a mainland domain and be hosted locally.

Apps intended for Chinese users must also comply with stringent censorship norms and data transfer regulations. The licencing process is particularly rigorous for apps that include content related to video gaming, books, magazines, religion, and news.

Other apps face similar fates

Additionally, other messaging services like Telegram and Signal were also removed from Apple’s mainland App Store, as reported by Bloomberg. In August of the previous year, Apple had withdrawn over a hundred applications offering ChatGPT-like features, anticipating new local regulations on generative artificial intelligence.

Despite these restrictions, Meta’s Facebook and Instagram continue to be available in the mainland App Store, although they require a virtual private network (VPN) to function within China.

Hot this week

Tesla profits drop sharply as sales weaken and Musk backlash grows

Tesla’s profits fall 71% as sales dip, political backlash grows, and hopes turn to cheaper EVs and robotaxi plans.

Anbernic stops US shipments amid rising tariff concerns

Anbernic halts US shipments due to rising tariffs, urging customers to order from its US warehouse to avoid high import duties.

Microsoft highlights growing AI-assisted scams and offers advice on how to stay safe

Microsoft’s latest report warns of rising AI-driven scams and outlines new tools and tips to help users stay safe online.

LG reveals a smart monitor on wheels—but it still needs to be plugged in

LG’s new 31.5" Smart Monitor Swing rolls on wheels and runs webOS, but it still needs a power plug and costs around US$740.

Famed AI researcher starts bold new company aiming to replace human jobs

AI expert launches Mechanize, a startup aiming to replace all human jobs with AI, sparking backlash and deep concern across the tech world.

WhatsApp adds new Advanced Chat Privacy feature to boost group chat security

WhatsApp's new Advanced Chat Privacy feature helps stop group chat content from being shared or saved outside the app.

Global PC shipments rise 6.7% in early 2025 as AI and tariffs drive demand

PC shipments rose 6.7% in Q1 2025, boosted by AI demand and tariff concerns, but growth is expected to slow later in the year.

POCO launches entry-level C71 smartphone in Singapore with premium features

POCO launches the budget-friendly C71 smartphone in Singapore, offering premium design, enhanced cameras, and smooth performance at S$109.

NVIDIA uses AI to address climate, wildlife and disaster risks

NVIDIA’s AI tools support climate action, wildlife monitoring, and disaster risk mitigation, with uses spanning sea, land, sky and space.

Related Articles

Popular Categories