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.
Claire Danes carries umbrella for bundled
Quake death toll surpasses 15,000 in Türkiye, Syria
Ecuador embroiled in diplomatic backlash after police break into Mexican embassy
Landmark loss and damage fund approved as UN climate conference closes in Egypt
BNSF Railway says it didn't know about asbestos that's killed hundreds in Montana town
Comicomment: 'Summit for Democracy' not about democracy
UN Security Council voices concern over killing of World Central Kitchen staff in Gaza
China: Political settlement only viable way out of Ukraine crisis
Ed Westwick puts on a dapper display as he steps out with stunning fiancée Amy Jackson for star
JAN MOIR: Another day, another desperate Montecito dollar. This time with jam on it!
Iran hails China's important role in Tehran