Skype vanishes from Apple and Android app stores in China
Messaging service pulled from online outlets after Ministry of Public Security says it does not comply with local law, Apple spokeswoman says
Skype, Microsoft’s internet phone call and messaging service, has disappeared from app stores in China including Apple’s online outlet, in the latest setback for a foreign tech service in the country.
Apple, responding to questions about Skype’s absence, late on Tuesday said it had removed several internet phone call apps from its App Store in China after the country’s government said they violated local laws.
“We have been notified by the Ministry of Public Security that a number of voice over internet protocol apps do not comply with local law. Therefore these apps have been removed from the App Store in China,” an Apple spokeswoman said.
“These apps remain available in all other markets where they do business.”
The Cyberspace Administration of China, which oversees censored technology, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.