China Plans to Ban iPhones Again, Especially for Government and State-Owned Company Workers

In a move signaling rising technological nationalism and escalating tensions with the United States, China is once again planning to restrict the use of iPhones by government officials and employees of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). The ban, which first emerged in 2023, is gaining renewed traction as Beijing doubles down on efforts to reduce dependence on foreign technology, particularly from the US.

The Scope of the Ban

The renewed directive reportedly bars employees from using iPhones at work or bringing them into government offices and SOE premises. The goal is twofold: to enhance cybersecurity and to encourage the adoption of domestically developed technologies, especially those powered by Huawei and other Chinese tech giants.

This restriction is expected to be applied across various levels of government and SOEs, affecting a vast number of employees. The policy, which began as internal guidance in a few agencies, has quietly expanded to provincial and municipal bodies in recent months.

Security Concerns and Strategic Motives

The primary justification behind the ban is national security. Chinese authorities have expressed growing concerns over the potential for US surveillance and data leaks through foreign-branded devices. As US-China relations remain tense, particularly over semiconductors, trade, and tech regulation, the ban is widely seen as a strategic move to counteract perceived American influence.

It follows a series of similar actions by the US government, which has also restricted Chinese companies like Huawei and TikTok from operating in certain environments over national security fears.

Apple’s Response and Market Impact

Apple, which derives about 20% of its global revenue from China, has not officially commented on the reports. However, analysts say the ban could dent Apple’s dominance in the Chinese smartphone market and encourage further growth for local competitors such as Huawei, Xiaomi, and Vivo.

The timing is critical, as Apple continues to face headwinds in China amid increased scrutiny and competition. The rollout of Huawei’s Mate 60 series, powered by domestically produced 5G chips, has reignited local pride and interest in homegrown alternatives.

What It Means for the Tech Industry

This development represents a broader shift in China’s approach to tech sovereignty. The country has long championed the use of “secure and controllable” technology within key institutions, especially those linked to national infrastructure and policy-making.

If the ban is fully implemented, it may trigger ripple effects across the global tech ecosystem, potentially influencing how multinational companies approach business in China.

While the average Chinese consumer is not directly affected, the policy could set the stage for a wider cultural shift — one where foreign tech loses its status symbol appeal and Chinese innovation steps into the spotlight.