In 2020, India made a vital move to cut off over 200 Chinese apps, citing issues related to user security and data privacy. This came amid growing concerns of how these apps handled user information and a numerical suspicion of their ties to the Chinese government.
Fast forward four years, and India and China have cleared the air. The two countries are improving their diplomatic relations progressively, with the long-banned apps returning silently to the Indian market.
The Return and Rebranding of Chinese Apps
Of these, 36 have re-listed on app stores in India under different guises, returning under their original names or undergoing a rebranding with some changing names and logos. In some cases, the applications have transferred ownership to other companies that have passed fresh regulations. A notable example would be the fashion shopping app Shein, which returned by joining forces with Reliance Retail. Likewise, PUBG Mobile rebranded itself to Battlegrounds Mobile India to fit the security expectations of India.
Which Apps Have Made a Comeback?
A variety of apps across different categories have resurfaced on Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. Here are some notable examples:
- Xender (File Sharing) – Previously banned in June 2020, Xender has returned as “Xender: File Share, Share Music” on the Apple App Store. However, it remains unavailable on Google Play Store in India.
- Youku (Streaming) – The app is back with a slightly modified name but retains the same content and interface.
- Taobao (Shopping) – Now listed as “Mobile Taobao,” this e-commerce platform has re-entered the Indian market with minimal changes.
- Tantan (Dating) – Rebranded as “TanTan – Asian Dating App,” the platform continues to operate similarly to its earlier version.
- MangoTV (Entertainment) – This streaming platform has returned without any major changes.
Convenience for Indian Users Amid Security Concerns
The return of these apps brings a measure of convenience and safety for Indian users. A good number of the suspended apps, including file-sharing services and entertainment platforms, had built substantial user bases before their removal. The restarted applications mean that users can now use familiar services to inform themselves, shop, or communicate. Yet, security apprehensions continue to hang over these resurgences. Further, clone versions of previously banned apps continue to spring up, complicating authorities’ effective control over access.
India’s Cautious Re-Engagement with Chinese Apps
While India’s overall perspective on Chinese apps is cautious, changing political conditions open the way for their return. The Indian government continues to prioritize national security and data privacy. Apps that comply with Indian norms and demonstrate independence in their operations are invited back.
The Case of Apps Like TikTok and WeChat
Notably, TikTok has not returned, likely owing to deeper concerns regarding data security and its connections with Chinese authorities. Other major apps, such as WeChat and UC Browser, also remain banned. This, therefore, indicates that India is not fully opening its doors to all Chinese apps but that rather each app will be considered for its security implications.