Looks like things have gotten interesting in the tech industry lately. Today, Apple Inc. has removed WhatsApp and Threads apps from the App Store starting today in compliance with China's regulations. That said, what should you know about it?
According to the Wall Street Journal (WSJ), Apple said that China’s Internet regulators asked Apple to remove WhatsApp and Threads apps due to national security concerns. According to reports, this is another example of Apple cooperating with China to strengthen Internet supervision.
In addition, an Apple spokesperson said in a statement: "We comply with and cooperate with national regulations in the countries where we operate, even though we do not agree with them." The report pointed out that although many Western social media applications have long been blocked in China, their removal from Apple’s App Store means that users cannot download the software and use circumvention software.
Moreover, China is Apple's largest overseas market. iPhone sales in China accounted for more than 17% last year, making it the top-selling smartphone brand there. Since last year, the Chinese government has required all mobile app developers to complete relevant registrations before March this year, and all unregistered apps must be removed from mobile app stores. The Chinese official explanation for this policy is to prevent apps from being used for telecommunications fraud.
Reportedly, Apple had held talks with Chinese officials to learn more about the impact of relevant regulations on its users. It is said that Chinese officials told Apple at the time that this regulation must be strictly implemented.
We have yet to confirm other details or if it will affect Malaysia too. Whatever it is, we hope that things go smoothly.
What are your thoughts about this news? Stay tuned for more news and updates like this at TechNave!
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