There is a change in the update for Chinese users of the mobile operating system. According to online user reports, Apple is limiting the "Everyone" option in AirDrop to 10 minutes. People can't keep their Airdrop on for an unlimited amount of time.
Some argue that this feature should have been an option for all Apple users, but others think the decision is related to recent incidents in China.
Airdrop is one of the few uncensored communication channels in China, which is why people were sharing politically sensitive content with others in recent weeks.
Apple has been able to retain its dominance in China despite the rise of local competitors. According to Counterpoint's research, in the second quarter, iPhones accounted for 13% of China's handset shipments, down from 18% and 22% in the first and fourth quarters of the year.
It is not uncommon for Apple to have specific restrictions for certain regions. Users in EU countries can't exceed the EU Volume Level due to hearing protection standards. In China, Apple has a history of applying more stringent rules on its content-related services, which are watched by the local authorities.
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