Apple Removes WhatsApp and Threads From China App Store

Apple has taken down WhatsApp and Threads from its app store in China due to an order from the country’s internet regulator over national security concerns. Both apps, owned by Meta, were previously blocked in China and not widely used. They could only be accessed through virtual private networks (VPNs), which encrypt internet traffic and hide a user’s online identity.

“We are obligated to follow the laws in the countries where we operate, even when we disagree,” an Apple spokesperson said. “The Cyberspace Administration of China ordered the removal of these apps from the China storefront based on their national security concerns. These apps remain available for download on all other storefronts where they appear.”

The removal of these apps by Apple indicates a widening gap between China’s tech ecosystem and the rest of the world.

“It will cause inconvenience to consumers and businesses (in China) who deal with family, friends or customers overseas. Even if they use VPNs to access their existing WhatsApp apps, these over time will become obsolete and require updating.”

Duncan Clark, chairman of Beijing-based investment advisory BDA China, via CNN

While WhatsApp and Threads have been removed, other popular Western social media apps like X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger remain available on Apple’s China app store, as confirmed by CNN.

Apple’s decision comes as iPhone sales in China continue to decline. According to IDC, Apple’s smartphone sales dropped by 10% in the first quarter of this year. The company has faced challenges in China due to factors like rising nationalism, a slowing economy, and increased competition from local brands like Huawei, Xiaomi, and OPPO/OnePlus.

Despite these challenges, China remains an essential market for Apple, being the second-largest market after the United States. To boost sales, Apple has been offering discounts in China. Recently, CEO Tim Cook visited Shanghai to inaugurate the second-largest Apple store globally.