China targets app privacy and Apple commission disputes

Chinese regulatory authorities have taken action against 71 mobile applications for illegal data collection and insufficient privacy transparency. Investigations revealed that many apps gather user information without explicit consent and lack detailed privacy policies regarding the purpose and storage of processed data. Following a grace period ending June 15, 2026, 17 of these applications were officially reprimanded.

In a separate development regarding the mobile ecosystem, 48 Chinese iOS developers filed a formal complaint with the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) on August 15, 2026. The group is challenging Apple, alleging that the company has failed to maintain globally uniform commission rates. The developers are demanding the opening of third-party payment methods and alternative distribution channels within the iOS operating system, arguing that financial burdens on Chinese developers remain higher than those in other international markets despite previous rate reductions.