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April 04, 2013

Apple Acknowledges Banned Books, Removes App in China

By Nicole Spector, Contributing Writer

Apple (News - Alert) and China are just not jiving these days.



The multinational cooperation has removed at least one of its mobile applications offerings from its iTunes store in the communist country.

Developed by Hao Peiqiang, the app, an online bookstore, contained access to 10 works of literature that the Chinese government has banned. Three of the pieces were by the Chinese writer and political activist Wang Lixiong, who has spoken out against Chinese government, and whose work is not allowed in the region. 

Wang's examines inflammatory topics like China's involvement with Tibet, and poses some extreme ideas, like how the Chinese government is doomed to collapse, and Wang's alleged personal experience with Xinjiang as well as his detention by state security officers.

Speaking against the governmental grain on Tibet is a sure way to get banned in China. Tibet has been in political turbulence since Chinese military conquered the region back in 1959. Heated protests continue to mark the region.

Last year, 83 Tibetans died protesting Chinese rule, after setting themselves on fire. 

Apple removed the controversial app in China, but not in other countries. The company's Beijing base has not yet commented on the move as its spokesperson, Carolyn Wu is on a public holiday.

Earlier this week, Apple issued an apology to customers in China led by chief executive officer, Tim Cook. The apology addressed criticism that Apple has poor customer service and warranty policies in China, and that the company is “arrogant.”

Apple not only apologized for the impression it made, but promised full replacements on older iPhones experiencing problems.




Edited by Braden Becker
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