Apple pulls WhatsApp and Threads from App Store on Beijing’s orders

HONG KONG (AP) — Apple announced that it had taken down Meta’s WhatsApp messaging app and Threads social media app from the App Store in China to comply with directives from Chinese authorities.

The removal of the apps occurred on Friday following concerns raised by Chinese officials regarding national security.

This action comes at a time of heightened tensions between the U.S. and China concerning trade, technology, and national security.

While the U.S. has considered banning TikTok due to national security issues, apps like WhatsApp and Threads, which are not widely used in China, have also faced removal.

In China, the messaging app WeChat, owned by Tencent, is the dominant platform.

Although other Meta apps like Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger are still available for download, the use of foreign apps is restricted in China due to the “Great Firewall” network.

Apple stated, “The Cyberspace Administration of China instructed the removal of these apps from the China storefront due to national security concerns.”

Apple emphasized its commitment to complying with laws in the countries where it operates, even if there are disagreements.

Meta did not provide an immediate response to the situation.

Apple, once the leading smartphone maker globally, recently lost its top position to Samsung Electronics. The company has faced challenges in China, one of its key markets, with declining sales following restrictions on the use of Apple devices by Chinese government agencies and state-owned company employees.

Apple has been expanding its manufacturing operations outside of China.

CEO Tim Cook’s recent visits to Southeast Asia included stops in Hanoi, Jakarta, and Singapore. During his visit to Singapore, he met with Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong to discuss Apple’s business partnership and commitment to the country.

Apple announced plans to invest over $250 million to enhance its campus in Singapore.

Earlier in the week, Cook met with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi and expressed intentions to increase spending on Vietnamese suppliers.

He also met with Indonesian President Joko Widodo and discussed the promotion of manufacturing in Indonesia, indicating Apple’s interest in exploring opportunities in the country.

Zen Soo, The Associated Press