
Apple Continues VPN App Removal in India After Similar Actions in China
January 2025
In a move that mirrors its previous actions in China, Apple is now removing VPN applications from its App Store in India. This decision has raised concerns about privacy and internet freedom, as VPNs are widely used to bypass censorship and access blocked websites.Apple's decision to remove VPN apps from its App Store in India follows a similar move made in China. In China, the company faced backlash for its compliance with the government's strict internet censorship laws. The move was seen as a compromise of its commitment to privacy and internet freedom. Apple defended its decision by stating it was simply following the local laws of each country it operates in, a policy that seems to be continuing with its decision in India.In India, the removal of VPN apps comes at a time when the country's government is tightening its control over the internet. Several internet-based services have been blocked in recent years as part of a wider push to control digital information. This has led to an increase in the use of VPNs, as they allow users to bypass these restrictions and access blocked content.However, Apple's decision to remove these apps suggests a willingness to comply with these stricter internet laws. This has led to concerns among privacy advocates, who fear that this move could further restrict internet freedom in India. The removal of these apps makes it more difficult for users to access blocked content and could potentially expose them to surveillance.While Apple has not explicitly commented on its decision to remove VPN apps from the App Store in India, its previous statements suggest it is simply following local laws. However, this has not alleviated concerns from critics, who argue that the company should prioritize internet freedom and privacy over compliance with restrictive internet laws.In conclusion, Apple's decision to remove VPN apps from its App Store in India is raising questions about the tech giant's commitment to privacy and internet freedom. As the company continues to navigate the complex landscape of internet laws in different countries, it is likely that these concerns will continue to be a point of contention.