The Chinese government has claimed that a state-backed institute has developed a way to identify users who send messages via Apple’s AirDrop feature. This new method has raised concerns about privacy and broader efforts to control online content in China. In an online post, the Beijing Judicial Bureau announced the “technological breakthrough” claiming it can crack an iPhone‘s encrypted device log to reveal the numbers and emails of AirDrop senders.According to a report by Bloomberg, this identification method has helped police identify suspects who were involved in spreading “inappropriate remarks” and “potential bad influences.” However, the report didn’t confirm any arrests.
Concerns surrounding the user identification method
The report mentions that critics have argued that decrypting device logs without user consent violates privacy rights and sets a dangerous precedent for online surveillance. The ability to identify AirDrop users can also affect free speech, especially in politically sensitive contexts. This development could further strain Apple’s relationship with the Chinese government and potentially impact its business in the country.
Why Apple restricted AirDrop in China
This news reignites debate about AirDrop, a popular tool for sharing files quickly between Apple devices. In 2019, Hong Kong protesters used it to spread pro-democracy messages. This highlighted the tool’s potential for bypassing censorship efforts. However, Apple hasn’t commented on the claims and has already restricted AirDrop functionality on Chinese iPhones since 2022. This was presumably done due to similar concerns.
Concerns surrounding the user identification method
The report mentions that critics have argued that decrypting device logs without user consent violates privacy rights and sets a dangerous precedent for online surveillance. The ability to identify AirDrop users can also affect free speech, especially in politically sensitive contexts. This development could further strain Apple’s relationship with the Chinese government and potentially impact its business in the country.
Why Apple restricted AirDrop in China
This news reignites debate about AirDrop, a popular tool for sharing files quickly between Apple devices. In 2019, Hong Kong protesters used it to spread pro-democracy messages. This highlighted the tool’s potential for bypassing censorship efforts. However, Apple hasn’t commented on the claims and has already restricted AirDrop functionality on Chinese iPhones since 2022. This was presumably done due to similar concerns.
The development also adds further uncertainty to Apple’s operations in China. The company already faces strict content controls on platforms like Apple TV and Books in the country.
Additionally, the company is also struggling with increasing pressure from state-backed agencies to ban the use of foreign devices at work. This has led to potential sales declines in iPhones.
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