China Tightens Grip on WhatsApp and Threads Access

China has taken further steps to restrict access to WhatsApp and Threads within the country, as Apple complies with a government directive to remove the apps from its Chinese app store. WhatsApp has been inaccessible in China since 2017, along with its parent company Meta since 2009. Additionally, other prominent Western platforms such as Gmail, YouTube, Snap, and Spotify have faced censorship in China.

Apple's Compliance with Chinese Government Order

Following instructions from the Chinese government, Apple has eliminated WhatsApp and Threads from its app store in China. The top internet regulator in China cited national security concerns as the reason for requesting the removal of these two apps. Despite any disagreement with the decision, Apple emphasized the importance of adhering to local laws in the regions where they operate.

Rising Concerns and Impact on Users

Since 2017, the Chinese government has enforced a block on WhatsApp, and Meta has faced a similar restriction since 2009. While some users have managed to access these platforms through virtual private networks, their removal from the app store could pose challenges for continued access. Requests for comments from Apple outside regular business hours went unanswered, while a Meta spokesperson redirected inquiries to Apple.

Global User Base and Market Dynamics

WhatsApp boasts a user base of over 2 billion worldwide, while Instagram Threads, introduced in July, has garnered more than 130 million users globally as per CEO Mark Zuckerberg's statement in February. Notably, China holds significant importance as both a manufacturing hub and consumer market for Apple. CEO Tim Cook's recent visit to the country, including the opening of a new store in Shanghai and engagements with key officials, underscores the company's commitment to the region despite challenges such as declining iPhone sales and developments in the local chip industry.

Broader Implications and Policy Debates

China's directive to Apple coincides with discussions among US policymakers regarding a potential ban on TikTok, the popular Chinese-owned app. Concerns over data privacy and political influence have fueled debates around restricting TikTok's distribution on platforms like Apple and Google's app stores, as well as blocking US websites from hosting the app. These developments reflect the evolving landscape of technology regulation and international relations.

Original article source: Business Insider

—————————————————————————————————————————————
By: shubhangigoel@insider.com (Shubhangi Goel)
Title: China Tightens Grip on WhatsApp and Threads Access
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/whatsapp-threads-removed-from-china-apple-store-government-order-2024-4
Published Date: Fri, 19 Apr 2024 03:59:32 +0000