Microsoft has banned the use of Android in its China office.

Microsoft drew attention by banning employees in its China office from using Android. While the company’s statement indicates that the main reason for this decision is ‘privacy and security,’ the actual reason is believed to be deeper.

As of September, employees will have to replace their Android devices with iPhones. This decision clearly conveys the message that there is a high risk of information theft and espionage on Android phones.

In addition, Microsoft employees will need to use special iPhone applications for authentication when accessing their work computers or phones. It is expected that Microsoft will require the use of Microsoft Authenticator and Identity Pass applications.

Reasons Behind Microsoft’s Decision

The official statement indicates that this decision was made due to increasing attacks. The attacks are claimed to be carried out by Russian hackers, and it is emphasized that Microsoft is transitioning to the more secure iOS systems.

However, the fact that this decision was made only in the China office brings to mind the tensions between China and the U.S. It is also considered that this decision may have been made as a result of China’s unofficial measures against Google.

Tensions Between the U.S. and China

The tension between the U.S. and China is affecting technology companies as well. It is known that the Microsoft office in China is under the control of Chinese managers and that the data is accessible by the Chinese government.

Google becoming an unwanted company in China and Huawei facing difficulties in the U.S. are further escalating the tension. This situation shows that the competition among tech giants has not only commercial but also political dimensions.