Apple removes Bitchat from China over censorship rules

Apple has removed Jack Dorsey’s decentralised messaging app Bitchat from its China App Store following a request from the country’s internet regulator.

The Cyberspace Administration of China said the app violated regulations governing services capable of influencing public opinion or enabling social mobilisation.

“Bitchat pulled from the China App Store,”

Said Block CEO Jack Dorsey, confirming the removal in a post on X.

The app operates over Bluetooth and mesh networks without requiring internet access, making it difficult for authorities to monitor or restrict communications.

Bitchat has gained traction during protests in countries including Iran, Nepal and Madagascar, where governments have imposed internet shutdowns.

Despite the ban in China, the app remains available globally and has recorded more than three million downloads, with usage continuing to rise.

The move highlights ongoing tensions between decentralised technologies and state-controlled digital ecosystems, particularly in tightly regulated markets like China.