In 2020, the Indian government banned 36 Chinese apps due to privacy and security concerns. These apps were part of a larger digital strike, which saw around 267 Chinese apps being removed, primarily due to border tensions with China. However, by 2025, several of these apps have made a comeback and are now available for download on Google Play Store and Apple App Store in India.
Why Have These Apps Returned?
- Many apps have shifted their operations to India.
- User data is now stored on Indian servers.
- Some apps operate under a franchise model, where Indian companies manage operations while the original brand collects royalties.
For example, SHEIN, an e-commerce fashion app, has been relaunched in India through Reliance, which now handles its operations and data storage.
Apps That Have Returned
Several gaming, shopping, entertainment, file-sharing, and content creation apps have re-entered the Indian market. Some have retained their original names, while others have rebranded.
Notable Comebacks:
- File-Sharing: Xender (now Xender: File Share, Share Music)
- Streaming: MangoTV, Youku
- E-Commerce: Taobao (now Mobile Taobao)
- Dating: Tantan (now TanTan – Asian Dating App)
PUBG and BGMI
PUBG Mobile was banned in 2020 but returned in 2021 as Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI), published by South Korea’s Krafton. However, it was banned again in 2022 and later reinstated in 2023 after meeting security standards.
Will TikTok Return?
Despite multiple attempts, TikTok has not been able to make a comeback due to concerns over local data storage and data sharing with China. Currently, there is no confirmed information on its return to India.