Technology-Portfolio.Net - Apple users in Chinese will likely no longer be able to find and download WhatsApp and Threads apps from the App Store.
Apple users in Chinese will likely no longer be able to find and download WhatsApp and Threads apps from the App Store.
Apple said it had pulled the apps from its store to comply with an order it received from the Cyberspace Administration, Chinese internet regulator, citing national security concerns.
Apple explains they are obliged to follow the laws of the countries in which they operate, even when they disagree with them.
Chinese Great Firewall regulator blocks many non-domestic apps and technologies, encouraging local citizens to use VPNs if they want to access any of them.
Facebook and Instagram are the only two apps on the list, but WhatsApp and Threads are still available for download today.
The Chinese regulator's order was issued shortly before the US Senate will vote on a bill that could lead to a ban on TikTok in the US.
The Cyberspace Administration claims that the app is a national security issue, echoing the arguments of US lawmakers who blocked TikTok in the country.
In the current version of the US bill, ByteDance has one year to divest TikTok, or the short video sharing platform will be banned from apps stores.
The US House of Representatives is expected to pass the bill, which is part of a package also including aid to Ukraine and Israel.
President Joe Biden previously said he supported the measure and would soon sign the bill into law.
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