Apple Limits Chinese Users Sharing Files With AirDrop For 10 Minutes

Apple has just announced restrictions on file sharing features, AirDrop on iPhones in China. (photo: dock. apple)

JAKARTA - Apple has just announced restrictions on file sharing features, AirDrop on iPhones in China. The new rule comes a month after reports that anti-government protesters are using the app to share files with strangers.

Now, iPhone users in China can only choose to receive files from non-contacts for 10 minutes, then the connection will shut down automatically. This feature previously did not have a time limit.

The company did not say why this rule was made, but many speculate the limit was introduced to prevent users from spreading harmful content related to the Chinese government.

Bloomberg, quoted on Friday, November 11, also reported the same thing, that the 10-minute restriction was imposed because protesters in the country used AirDrop to spread posters and anti-governmental content to thousands of people.

It is known, AirDrop allows iPhone users to exchange images, documents, and even videos quickly between Apple devices. This feature is a way to increase productivity or share content with millions of people.

This time limit applies only if customers buy iPhones sold in Chinese territory. This means that the restrictions are based on hardware, not software.

The restrictions rolled out with an update on iOS 16.1.1 which has the option of Everyone up to 10 minutes of use. iOS 16.1.1 also introduced bug fixes and security enhancements. Apple fixed at least two pathways that others could exploit.

In addition, the company is also testing iOS 16.2 which will be released in mid-December by presenting a new Freeform app, the use of more frequent Live Activities and more.

Apple said it plans to roll out a new AirDrop setup globally next year to reduce the sharing of unwanted files.

This is not the first time Apple has made a decision to comply with the Chinese government. In 2019, the company had hidden Taiwan flag emojis for users in Hong Kong or Macau, removed apps for virtual private networks or VPNs, and restricted Apple's own services in the country, such as Apple TV+, iTunes Store, podcasts, Apple Books, and Apple Arcade.