The censorship row between Google and China has resulted in Google postponing the release of its new Nexus One mobile phone, widening the gap between Google and China.
The two new handsets should have been unveiled tomorrow with the Chinese mobile phone operator China Unicom. The mobiles developed with Samsung Electronics and Motorola have now been postponed, and Google has not stated for how long.
Background of the Censorship Dispute
This action comes just days after Google threatened to close its Google.cn search engine unless the Chinese Government eased censorship rules. This move could result in the loss of 700 jobs at Google’s Chinese offices. The conflict began when Google announced that it had been the target of a sophisticated cyber attack originating from China, which aimed to access the Gmail accounts of Chinese human rights activists. This revelation led Google to reconsider its business operations in China, where it had agreed to censor search results in compliance with local laws.
Even though China does have mobile phones on sale using Google’s Android OS, the new phones would have brought Gmail and web search access to the mobile market. This would have been a significant step forward in providing Chinese consumers with more open access to information and communication tools. However, the Chinese government’s strict control over internet content and its insistence on censorship have created a challenging environment for foreign tech companies.
Implications for the Tech Industry
The postponement of the Nexus One release highlights the broader implications of the censorship dispute for the tech industry. Companies like Google, which advocate for an open internet, face significant challenges when operating in countries with stringent censorship laws. The situation in China serves as a critical example of the tension between global tech companies’ values and the regulatory environments in which they operate.
For instance, Google’s decision to potentially withdraw from China could set a precedent for other tech companies facing similar dilemmas. It raises questions about the balance between adhering to local laws and upholding principles of free speech and open access to information. Moreover, the economic impact of such decisions cannot be overlooked. The Chinese market is vast and lucrative, and withdrawing from it could mean losing out on substantial business opportunities.
On the other hand, the Chinese government has shown little willingness to compromise on its censorship policies. This steadfast approach underscores the broader geopolitical tensions between China and Western countries, particularly regarding issues of internet freedom and human rights. The outcome of this dispute could influence future negotiations and business strategies for tech companies looking to enter or expand in the Chinese market.
Via Guardian
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