Apple has revealed new details about its controversial data centres in China, amid a dispute with the FBI that has raised questions about its privacy policies outside the US.
In China — Apple’s fastest-growing market — the company has acceded to unusual government requests, such as using China-based data centres and incorporating a Chinese WiFi standard, drawing criticism over whether it was turning a blind eye to government snooping. China accounts for a quarter of Apple’s revenue, with sales of $18bn last quarter.
Apple attempted to address these concerns in court documents filed on Tuesday in preparation for its hearing next week in the case brought by the FBI. The bureau is seeking court approval to compel Apple to unlock an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino terrorists.