Microsoft employees in China forced to use only iPhone devices

Microsoft employees based in China will have to change their phones if they use Android. Microsoft is introducing a new policy that will require its employees to use only iPhone devices. The main reason seems to be the ban on Google Play services in the Asian country.

According to Bloomberg, starting in September, affected employees will only be able to use Apple devices to access identity verification apps. The company wants to make sure everyone has the Microsoft Authenticator and Identity Pass apps on their phones.

Microsoft Employees Forced to Replace Android Devices with iPhones

The move is part of an initiative to establish stronger security measures to fortify the company against potential attacks. For months, Microsoft has been the target of persistent attacks allegedly sponsored by the Russian government. The US government even confirmed that a related data breach also affected the State Department. The breach did not compromise key confidential data. However, the situation has led to pressure from US lawmakers to implement more stringent security systems.

According to the report, the company will provide iPhone 15 devices to its employees in China as a “one-time purchase.” Interestingly, even employees based in Hong Kong will have to comply with this policy. It is worth noting that Google Play services are available in Hong Kong. However, Microsoft is not making any exceptions in its new policy.

The new rules contradict the Chinese government’s position on foreign devices.

Still, the Chinese government may not be too happy about Microsoft employees now exclusively using iPhones. Starting in 2023, they’re promoting the abandonment of foreign-made devices at work. Like Microsoft, the Chinese government cites security concerns as the reason for the move. Now, though, Microsoft employees in China will have to ditch their Android devices from local brands like Xiaomi and Huawei in favor of iPhones.