Feb 28 2018: Apple officially moves its Chinese iCloud operations and encryption keys to China

Back in Feb 28 2018: Apple officially moves its Chinese iCloud operations and encryption keys to China

Apple has transferred its Chinese iCloud operations to a local firm in southern China, and is now hosting its iCloud encryption keys in China. This move has raised concerns about potential security risks and the government's access to user data.

Apple has stated that this partnership allows them to comply with Chinese regulations. However, experts warn that Chinese laws do not protect internet users' privacy from government intrusion.

Fast forward to Oct 03 2023: Apple enforces new check on apps in China as Beijing tightens oversight

Apple is now requiring new apps on its China App Store to show proof of a Chinese government license before their release. This move aligns Apple with local competitors who have been following this policy for years.

Previously, Apple's loose policy allowed it to offer more mobile apps than its local rivals, but this move could affect the accessibility of hundreds of thousands of apps on its App Store in China. Some developers have expressed concerns that Apple may further tighten its rules to comply with China's regulations. This comes as China tightens its oversight over mobile apps.

How will Apple's new requirement for Chinese government licenses affect the accessibility of foreign apps on its China App Store?