REDMOND, Wash. Tuesday, July 09, 2024- In a tit for tat move aimed at bolstering cybersecurity measures in China, Microsoft is requiring all its employees in the mainland to switch to iPhones for work purposes.
The new policy, set to take effect in September, will see the company provide its Chinese staff with iPhone 15 models.
The move comes amid heightened scrutiny of technology companies operating in China.
The Chinese government itself recently ordered a switch away from iPhones for government officials, citing security concerns related to U.S. technology companies.
Microsoft’s decision highlights the complex security considerations faced by multinational corporations operating in China.
Previously, Android devices were permitted for work use alongside iPhones. However, Microsoft cited security concerns related to the lack of Google Play Store access in China.
The Play Store is a major source for applications, and its absence on many Android devices in China raises questions about the potential for unauthorized software.
