Chinese Regulators Establish Pre-Approval Rules for Mobile Apps Influencing Public Opinion

[Image source=Reuters Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] Chinese authorities, tightening regulations on information and communication (IT) companies, have established a rule that smartphone applications (apps) that could influence public opinion must undergo prior review by the authorities before release.

On the 5th, China's internet censorship authority, the Cyberspace Administration of China, announced a draft of the "Regulations on the Management of Mobile Internet Application Information Services."

The draft specifies that smartphone app providers must undergo review according to national regulations if they intend to release new technologies and features that influence public opinion or have social mobilization power.

It also states that smartphone apps must not harm national security or public interest, nor infringe upon the legitimate rights and interests of individuals or organizations.

The regulations prohibit false advertising and bundled downloads, and forbid inducing users to download through illegal or substandard information or controlling comments.

Additionally, providing news services via mobile apps requires obtaining relevant permits.

However, the Cyberspace Administration of China did not disclose specific details about the apps subject to review or the review procedures.

Major foreign media interpreted this as part of measures to strengthen supervision over large information technology companies, noting that Chinese authorities have tightened regulations over the past year in areas ranging from gaming, real estate, to education.

The Cyberspace Administration of China stated in the general provisions of the regulations that "these regulations were established in accordance with the law to standardize smartphone app information services and protect national security and public interest."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.