Skype Removed From Apple’s App Store In China 

Skype-which is one of the last foreign tools for online communication in China-has been removed from app stores including the Apple app store.

According to reports, users of the iPhone users could not use the Skype as reality dawns on them that the app may have been blocked. The app is also no longer available for download on Android app stores in China.

A Microsoft spokesperson said: “The iOS version of Skype has been temporarily removed from the app store in China and we’re working to reinstate the app as soon as possible. We’re passionate about the benefit that Skype offers to our users around the world by facilitating communication and enabling collaboration.”

Meanwhile, a spokeswoman for Apple said: “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. These apps remain available in all other markets where they do business.”

Skype is just the latest in a string of foreign-owned digital and internet platforms – including Alphabet’s Google, Facebook, Whatsapp and Twitter – which have become unavailable to Chinese users.

Perhaps in the near future, a Chinese version of Skype will emerge just like WeChat, and Baidu among others.