Apple may pull iMessage, FaceTime from UK if controversial security bill passes
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A number of tech companies, including Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL), are considering pulling their messaging services from the U.K. if a controversial security bill becomes law.
The legislation, known as the Online Safety Bill, is currently being debated, though companies like Apple (AAPL), Meta Platforms (META) owned WhatsApp, Signal and others have come out against it, vehemently opposing the ability for the government to scan encrypted messages, the BBC reported.
The news outlet added that Apple (AAPL) wrote a nine-page opposition to the bill, opposing features of the legislation such as having to tell the Home Office of changes to product security features prior to release; requiring non-UK based companies to comply with the changes that would impact the product globally; taking immediate action if it receives a notice from the Home Office, rather than reviewing the action or appealing it.
If the bill becomes law, Apple (AAPL) could remove iMessage and FaceTime from the U.K. market, while Signal has threatened to "walk" from the market, the news outlet added.
Cupertino, California-based Apple (AAPL) did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Seeking Alpha.
Apple (AAPL) shares were fractionally higher in early Thursday trading.
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