China’s state-run People’s Daily criticized Apple for approving a Hong Kong app that crowd-sources and maps updates about police and protester locations, as well as for returning a song “advocating Hong Kong independence” to Apple Music. While the newspaper did not name the song it was referring to, it’s likely to be “Glory to Hong Kong,” which many in the city are calling their “national” anthem.
“Nobody wants to drag Apple into the lingering unrest in Hong Kong. But people have reason to assume that Apple is mixing business with politics, and even illegal acts,” said the article, published under the byline Bo Lan Ping, or “calming the waves,” a pseudonym used frequently by the newspaper for commenting on Hong Kong issues in recent weeks. “Apple has to think about the consequences of its unwise and reckless decision.”
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In what appears to be a threat to its access to the vast market in China, the commentary said Apple’s “mixing of political, commercial and illegal activities” is “unwise” and “imprudent” and would only “draw more turbulence” for the company. This is very worrisome, especially with the trade wars going on.
In another bit of news however, it seems Apple iPhone users in Macau and Taiwan discovered that they no longer had access to an emoji bearing the image of the Taiwanese flag, considered a controversial symbol on mainland China.
The removal is being treated by activists and pro-Hong Kong supporters as another attempt from mainland China to establish sovereignty over areas it considers under its control. Because of Taiwan’s political status, the People’s Republic of China considers any mention of or allusion to its independence as an offense against its sovereignty.
It is still possible to use the Taiwan flag emoji, however. Apparently it still displays in apps and on websites, and you can bring it up by typing the word “Taiwan” or by copying and pasting it.
