In 2020, India banned 200+ Chinese apps due to security concerns. This decision came after the Galwan Valley clash, in which many Indian soldiers were martyred. Now by 2024-25, some banned Chinese apps have started appearing again on Play Store and App Store.
Is TikTok coming back?
TikTok is still banned in India and ByteDance (TikTok’s parent company) has not yet got the green signal from the government. But, many TikTok alternatives like Snack Video and Likee are trying to come back with new names.
36 Chinese Apps Returned
According to an India Today report, 36 out of the 200+ banned apps have now returned. These apps are associated with gaming, shopping, entertainment, and file sharing categories. Many of these apps have changed their name, logo, and ownership.
Which apps have returned?
- Xender – Available on Apple App Store as ‘Xender: File Share, Share Music’
- Youku – Streaming app, with a new name
- Taobao – Now listed as ‘Mobile Taobao’
- Tantan – rebranded as ‘TanTan – Asian Dating App’
- MangoTV – Returned without any change
Shein has also returned!
Fashion brand Shein is now operating in India through a licensing deal with Reliance. The government has confirmed that Shein’s data will now be stored in India and Chinese companies will not get access.
Chinese apps adopting PUBG’s formula
PUBG Mobile was also banned in 2020, but returned in 2021 as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). This game was banned again in 2022, but was allowed again in 2023 with some security conditions.
This strategy is also being used by some Chinese apps – either they are partnering with Indian companies or changing ownership.
Is there a cyber security risk from Chinese apps?
Although the government has allowed some apps to come back, there are still data security and privacy concerns. Cyber experts and authorities are monitoring these apps.
Conclusion: When will TikTok come back?
Till now TikTok has not returned to India and the government has not given any update on it. But Chinese apps are trying to come back to India through rebranding and partnerships. If you are also installing any new Chinese app, then do not forget to check its privacy policy and data security first!