Two of the most prominent dating applications for gay men in China have been taken down from the country’s official mobile app marketplaces. The platforms, Blued and Finka, are no longer accessible for new downloads from Apple’s App Store in China or from several major Android distributors.
The removals were executed following a directive from China’s Cyberspace Administration. A spokesperson for Apple confirmed the action, stating the company complies with local regulations in all jurisdictions where it operates. The apps remain functional for users who had previously installed them and are still downloadable directly from the developers’ websites.
Blued, launched over a decade ago, is widely recognized as China’s largest social networking app for gay men, boasting tens of millions of registered users globally. It later expanded its services to include features like live streaming. Finka, another app in the same sector, was acquired by Blued’s parent company several years ago.
While same-sex relations are not illegal in China, there has been a notable contraction in public spaces and expressions related to LGBTQ communities in recent years. A number of civil society groups have ceased operations, and public events like pride festivals have been halted. The removal of these major digital platforms is seen by observers as a significant further restriction on online spaces for sexual minorities.
Reaction within affected communities has been one of alarm and confusion. An anonymous founder of an LGBTQ organization described the move as shocking, questioning the rationale behind targeting apps that provide community and connection. Online, some users expressed that such platforms had been vital in helping individuals feel less isolated.
The exact reasons for the removal order and whether it represents a permanent ban remain unclear. Authorities have not issued a public statement on the matter. The development underscores the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals in China amid a broader tightening of controls over digital and social life.