Advertisements created by Apple Computer featuring the Dalai Lama will not be run in Asia because the company claims he is not 'easily recognised'.
He will instead be replaced by the likes of United States aviator Amelia Earhart.
The company's explanation for the move was ridiculed by the Tibetan spiritual leader's spokesman in London.
'I think that Apple Computer does not want to offend the Chinese,' said Tseten Samdup, who added that the Dalai Lama's fame was boosted by frequent attacks from Beijing.
The Dalai Lama gave permission for his face to be used across the US as part of Apple's 'Think Different' campaign.
The company's interim chief executive officer, Steve Jobs, said at the launch: 'Think Different celebrates the soul of the Apple brand - that creative people with passion can change the world for the better.' Each advertisement features a portrait of the 'great thinker' with the Apple logo and the slogan 'Think different'.