Apple removes huge social media platform from App Store

The App Store now no longer features the huge social media platform VK. Apple has decided to remove the app, due to sanctions from the United Kingdom.

Users on iPhone and iPad can only download apps through Apple's own App Store. As a result, it is now no longer possible to use the social media platform VK on the devices. The organization behind VK said in a statement that Apple is blocking the app, but that they will „continue to develop the platform for iOS.

To The Verge, Adam Dema, an Apple spokesman, confirmed that VKontakte – a Russian version of Facebook – has been removed worldwide and the developer's accounts have been closed. The reason for removing the app is the sanctions implemented by the United Kingdom.

„The apps are published by developers largely owned by parties under sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom. To comply with the sanctions, Apple has removed the developer accounts and the apps can no longer be downloaded from any App Store, regardless of location. Users who already have the app can continue to use it.“

Why is the social media platform banned?

The U.K.'s new sanctions took effect Monday, following the sham referendums organized by Russia in parts of Ukraine. The sanctions target 23 top executives at Gazprombank, which has strong ties to VKontakte.

Russia's Digital Affairs Ministry called for it to investigate the blockade on the App Store. The app can still be downloaded through Google's Play Store.