Skip to main content

Apple launching first data center in China in response to new local cybersecurity laws

Apple is opening a new data center in China, in partnership with a local Chinese data management firm, following tightened legislation over how companies can store data about users in the country.

Apple says the new data center will allow it to comply with the regulations and improve the speed of Apple cloud services in the region. It reaffirmed earlier statements that it would not create a backdoor for any third-party (via CNBC).

As the Chinese law requires foreign companies to use locally managed businesses to store data, Apple is partnering with Guizhou-Cloud Big Data Industry Co Ltd for this particular data center project. Usually, the company manages everything itself (like in Denmark).

Apple says the new data center will make up part of a $1 billion total investment in the Guizhou province. In a statement, the company said the new facility allows them to comply with regulations and improve quality of service in the country.

“The addition of this data center will allow us to improve the speed and reliability of our products and services while also complying with newly passed regulations”

Like all of Apple’s data centers, the new Chinese plant will be powered by 100% renewable energy.

In general, businesses have complained about the new Chinese legislation around user data. Many people believe that the real motivation for the laws was to set foreign companies at a disadvantage to local firms as it requires ‘excessive compliance risks’.

China says this is not true and the laws are intended to counter terrorism attacks. Apple is one of the first companies to announce its compliance plans.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

You’re reading 9to5Mac — experts who break news about Apple and its surrounding ecosystem, day after day. Be sure to check out our homepage for all the latest news, and follow 9to5Mac on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to stay in the loop. Don’t know where to start? Check out our exclusive stories, reviews, how-tos, and subscribe to our YouTube channel

Comments

Author

Avatar for Benjamin Mayo Benjamin Mayo

Benjamin develops iOS apps professionally and covers Apple news and rumors for 9to5Mac. Listen to Benjamin, every week, on the Happy Hour podcast. Check out his personal blog. Message Benjamin over email or Twitter.