AsianFin— Germany has requested that Apple and Google remove the DeepSeek app, developed by a Chinese AI startup, from their app stores in the country, citing data security concerns, according to a Reuters report.

German Data Protection Commissioner Meike Kamp issued a statement on June 27 alleging that DeepSeek unlawfully transfers users’ personal data to China. She urged both tech giants to review the matter and decide whether to block the app in Germany. No specific deadline was provided for the decision.

Google confirmed it had received the request and is currently assessing the situation. Apple has yet to respond. Chinese authorities have previously issued multiple statements rejecting allegations of data misuse tied to Chinese AI applications.