Apple has taken the step of purging hundreds of apps from the Chinese App Store that provided ChatGPT-like services. The move comes as the company aims to comply with new AI regulations implemented by the Chinese government. Apple stated that the apps were pulled because they contained content that is considered illegal in China.
Numerous apps were affected by the purge, including Spark from iFlytek, which had a highly anticipated launch toward the end of June. Another prominent app that was removed is ChatGAi Plus, which was ranked 9th in the paid apps category on the Chinese App Store.
This is not the first time that Apple has cleansed the Chinese App Store. In 2020, the tech giant removed a staggering 30,000 apps to adhere to regulations surrounding paid content. The removals were primarily games, accounting for 90% of the total number of apps taken down.
The decision to purge ChatGPT-like apps aligns with the recent regulations implemented by China to tighten control over AI services. These regulations specifically target generative AI services and technologies, including deep synthesis technologies. The aim is to impose stricter controls on AI-based services. The new regulations are set to be enforced in China from August 15, with the goal of promoting healthy content and upholding socialist values.
China released comprehensive regulations on generative AI in July, which encompass all forms of generative AI content, such as text, images, audio, and video. With a heavy focus on national security, the regulations require companies to utilize generative AI to prevent their services from being used to generate false content.
Apple’s actions reflect their willingness to abide by Chinese regulations and maintain a cooperative relationship with the country. While the purging of apps may disappoint some users, it aligns with the Chinese government’s efforts to regulate AI-based services and control the dissemination of content.
Overall, Apple’s decision to remove ChatGPT-like apps from the Chinese App Store is a response to the new AI regulations imposed by the government. With tighter controls on AI services, China aims to promote the use of AI for positive content generation while preventing the spread of false information. By complying with these regulations, Apple demonstrates its commitment to maintaining harmony with the Chinese government and user base.
