Telegram founder accuses China of pressuring Apple

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, has alleged that Apple Inc. was pressured by the Chinese government, which resulted in the removal of four apps from its China-based App Store. According to Durov, these apps—Signal, Telegram, WhatsApp, and Threads—were victims of potential digital censorship, violating users’ rights to freely access information and communication tools. Durov suggests that the Chinese government’s actions were not focused on removing Telegram but on exerting pressure on Apple. In his view, this was a strategic move made by the Chinese government to assert control over Apple, using it to influence the global tech giant. In response, Apple justified the app removals as compliance with local laws and directives from the Cyberspace Administration of China. They further indicated that these actions were taken in response to national security concerns raised by Chinese authorities. Durov suggests that these actions are part of a broader strategy by the Chinese government.

Telegram founder’s allegations against Apple and China

He believes it encourages Chinese citizens to switch from iPhones to Android phones manufactured by Chinese companies like Xiaomi, promoting self-reliance in technology and increasing China’s autonomy over the local digital landscape. However, these claims are contradicted by other factors. Telegram and Signal are also unavailable in Android app stores in China, and Apple resisted removing the apps until the last possible moment. This suggests that issues beyond national security apprehensions could influence the availability of these apps in China. Durov’s proposition has reignited the conversation about the complex relationship between China, technology, and local and foreign tech companies. It highlights the difficult balancing act required to maintain control while promoting an open-source platform and protecting consumer interests.