Apple Removes WhatsApp and Threads From App Store in China

Apple has removed WhatsApp Messenger and Threads from the App Store in China, after being ordered by the government to do so.

According to a statement from Apple to Reuters, the Chinese government demanded the apps be removed due to 'national security concerns'.

"The Cyberspace Administration of China ordered the removal of these apps from the China storefront based on their national security concerns," Apple said in an emailed statement. "We are obligated to follow the laws in the countries where we operate, even when we disagree," the statement said.


It's unclear why WhatsApp and Threads were targeted while Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger remain available. It may have to do with reports that Speaker Mike Johnson is set to include TikTok divestiture legislation in an aid package for Ukraine and Israel that could get approval by the House as early as Saturday. The Senate is expected to pass the legislation and Biden has promised to sign it immediately.

If the bill becomes law, it gives ByteDance a year to divest itself of TikTok. However, it's likely the company will launch various legal challenges in attempt to retain control of the app.

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