Apple has removed two of China’s most popular gay dating apps—Blued and Finka—from its App Store in the country, following a directive from China’s top internet regulator.
According to a report by Wired, the Cyberspace Administration of China ordered the tech giant to pull both apps, which cater to the LGBTQ+ community and are widely used across the country.
“We follow the laws in the countries where we operate,” an Apple spokesperson said.
“Based on an order from the Cyberspace Administration of China, we have removed these two apps from the China storefront only.”
LGBTQ+ Community in China Faces Ongoing Restrictions
The move is being seen as yet another blow to China’s already marginalised LGBTQ+ community. While homosexuality was decriminalised in 1997, same-sex marriage remains unrecognised, and censorship laws continue to suppress LGBTQ+ representation in media, including TV shows and films.
China has a long history of digital crackdowns. In 2022, the popular international LGBTQ+ dating app Grindr was also removed from the App Store in China.
Social media users reported that both Blued and Finka were still functioning on devices where the apps had been previously downloaded, though new users are now unable to access them via the Apple App Store.
Apple’s LGBTQ+ Commitments Questioned
The removal has sparked scrutiny of Apple’s commitment to human rights and inclusivity—especially given the personal stance of its CEO, Tim Cook, who came out as gay in 2014.
“Being gay has given me a deeper understanding of what it means to be in the minority,” Cook wrote at the time.
“I don’t consider myself an activist, but I realise how much I’ve benefited from the sacrifice of others.”
He added that Apple, under his leadership, has consistently supported equality and human rights:
“The company I am so fortunate to lead has long advocated for human rights and equality for all… We’ll continue to fight for our values.”
Apple’s Progressive Brand in Conflict?
Apple has long presented itself as a progressive and inclusive brand. Each year, the company releases Pride Edition Apple Watch bands and accessories and donates to LGBTQ+ advocacy organisations.
However, Apple’s willingness to comply with censorship demands in countries like China highlights a disconnect between its public image and corporate actions.
