The announcement was made by the Ministry of Information Technology.
In a press release, the government of India has officially announced a ban on apps that were made in China, saying that the apps “are engaged in activities which is prejudicial to sovereignty and integrity of India, defense of India, security of state and public order.”
Reports said that the ban was also made in line with concerns about data security and privacy of 1.3 billion Indians, most of which have raised complaints about these apps being misused that is available on Android and iOS platforms.
Among the 59 apps that were banned includes TikTok, currently one of the biggest apps in the world today with a reported 200 million user base in India alone. Other apps like WeChat and Xiaomi’s own apps were also included. The apps are still available on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store as of this writing, and we are still waiting for word from Google and Apple if and when the apps will be removed.
“This move will safeguard the interests of crores of Indian mobile and internet users. This decision is a targeted move to ensure safety and sovereignty of Indian cyberspace,” the statement concluded.
Here is the full list of apps that was banned:
- TikTok
- Shareit
- Kwai
- UC Browser
- Baidu map
- Shein
- Clash of Kings
- DU battery saver
- Helo
- Likee
- YouCam makeup
- Mi Community
- CM Browers
- Virus Cleaner
- APUS Browser
- ROMWE
- Club Factory
- Newsdog
- Beutry Plus
- UC News
- QQ Mail
- Xender
- QQ Music
- QQ Newsfeed
- Bigo Live
- SelfieCity
- Mail Master
- Parallel Space
- Mi Video Call Xiaomi
- WeSync
- ES File Explorer
- Viva Video QU Video Inc
- Meitu
- Vigo Video
- New Video Status
- DU Recorder
- Vault- Hide
- Cache Cleaner DU App studio
- DU Cleaner
- DU Browser
- Hago Play With New Friends
- Cam Scanner
- Clean Master Cheetah Mobile
- Wonder Camera
- Photo Wonder
- QQ Player
- We Meet
- Sweet Selfie
- Baidu Translate
- Vmate
- QQ International
- QQ Security Center
- QQ Launcher
- U Video
- V fly Status Video
- Mobile Legends
- DU Privacy
