Apple pulls WhatsApp and Threads from App Store on Beijing's orders
Time:2024-04-20 07:11:47 Source:worldViews(143)
HONG KONG (AP) — Apple said it had removed Meta’s WhatsApp messaging app and its Threads social media app from the App Store in China to comply with orders from Chinese authorities.
The apps were removed from the store on Friday after Chinese officials cited unspecified national security concerns.
Their removal comes amid elevated tensions between the U.S. and China over trade, technology and national security.
The U.S. has threatened to ban TikTok over national security concerns. But while TikTok, owned by Chinese technology firm ByteDance, is used by millions in the U.S., apps like WhatsApp and Threads are not commonly used in China.
Instead, the messaging app WeChat, owned by Chinese company Tencent, reigns supreme.
Other Meta apps, including Facebook, Instagram and Messenger remained available for download, although use of such foreign apps is blocked in China due to its “Great Firewall” network of filters that restrict use of foreign websites such as Google and Facebook.
Previous:Thai leaders ready to increase humanitarian aid in Myanmar — Radio Free Asia
Next:Eric Bana gets animated during AFL game between the St Kilda Saints and the Western Bulldogs
You may also like
- Jury selection for Trump's hush money trial could near a close
- Dulcimer Duo Promote Charm of Yangqin via Short Videos
- Advancing Rural Development Through Modern Agriculture
- Promoting Family Education, Raising Happy Children
- Angel Reese gushes over Caitlin Clark as she put rivalries aside at last week's WNBA Draft
- Peking Opera Costumes: A Display of History, Culture and Fine Craftsmanship
- 'Rose Sister' Leads Villagers to Prosperity
- Caring for Cranes Meticulously
- Nicola Peltz cements the end of 'feud' with 'beautiful' mother