The new iOS 16.1.1 update for Chinese users is causing a stir. According to online reports, Apple is limiting the amount of time a user can receive files via AirDrop from the “Everyone” option to 10 minutes. This limitation applies to iPhones purchased in mainland China. However, Apple says it is simply trying to improve the AirDrop experience by automatically resetting the receiving setting back to “Contacts Only” after 10 minutes – this should help reduce any unwanted file sharing incidents.
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While some argue that this feature should have been available sooner, others see it as Apple's response to recent events in China. Next year, Apple plans to make this feature available to users around the world.
The default setting for AirDrop is “Contacts Only.” A user must manually change the setting to receive files from “Everyone.”
Airdrop, a file-sharing feature that uses Bluetooth Low Energy and peer-to-peer Wi-Fi, is one of the few remaining uncensored methods of communication in China. In recent weeks, as the country's top leadership has been in the process of being reshuffled, people have used Airdrop to share politically sensitive content with others.
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Even as companies like Huawei and Oppo gain ground, Apple remains the top choice for many in China , especially those with high incomes. According to Counterpoint research, iPhones accounted for 13% of mobile phone shipments in China during the second quarter. That's down from 18% and 22% in the first and fourth quarters, respectively.
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Apple has a habit of tailoring its products to fit local regulations. For example, in EU countries, the company has stopped users from exceeding EU volume levels due to hearing protection standards. In China, when it comes to things like games and podcasts ( which are heavily monitored by local authorities), Apple takes an even stricter stance on content-related services
For those who don't know: Airdrop is a feature on Apple devices that allows you to share files wirelessly with other Apple devices. It's a quick and easy way to share photos, videos, documents , and more. To use Airdrop, both devices must be turned on and within range of each other.
Information source: techcrunch.com
