Apple has confirmed it removed two major gay dating apps from its China store after an official order. The company said it acted on instructions from the Cyberspace Administration of China, which oversees online activity nationwide.
The removal affects Blued and Finka, which are widely used by LGBT users across the country.
Blued is one of China’s most downloaded gay dating platforms and holds a strong presence in major cities. A simplified version of the app still appears on local app stores, which suggests authorities did not seek a full ban. Other apps aimed at gay and bisexual users remain available, including Jicco and Jack’d, according to checks made this week.
Members of the LGBT community voiced concern about the decision and highlighted growing pressure on queer spaces. One user said they hoped policymakers would understand that love should not be treated as something hidden or shameful. This reaction reflects wider fears that online restrictions are limiting support networks for sexual minorities.
Apple operates a separate app store in China due to strict local rules governing content and digital services. Western social media platforms such as Instagram and WhatsApp have long been unavailable inside the country. Android users rely on local app stores because Google Play is blocked by state internet controls.
China tightened its digital regulations last year by requiring all apps for domestic users to register for licences. This move caused many foreign services to disappear from online stores across the country. Officials said the rules aimed to encourage a healthy online environment through stronger industry oversight.
Homosexuality was decriminalised in 1997 but same-sex marriage is still not recognised. Several LGBT advocacy groups, including Beijing LGBT Center and ShanghaiPride, have closed in recent years under rising pressure.
