19 April 2024 — Apple has pulled WhatsApp and Threads from the App Store in China following a request from the Chinese government citing national security concerns.
Chinese Government’s Request
The Cyberspace Administration of China requested the removal of these apps, obliging Apple to comply with local laws despite disagreements. Apple stated that failure to adhere to legal demands could result in the App Store being shut down in China, highlighting the challenges of operating in a highly regulated market.
While the apps are no longer available for new downloads, users with VPN tools can still access Meta services like WhatsApp and Threads if they were previously installed. The timing of this action coincides with Apple CEO Tim Cook’s recent visit to the region and ongoing geopolitical discussions, possibly indicating broader regulatory shifts affecting app availability in China.
Future App Bans Expected
The ban on WhatsApp and Threads may signal a broader crackdown on unregistered foreign apps in China, with potential implications for other similar platforms in the coming months.
Source: Link
