China's New Censorship Apps

A new suite of "digital wellness" apps helps Chinese citizens self-censor before they even post. The most popular, "HarmonyGuard," scans your typed messages and suggests more politically palatable alternatives. Type "traffic is bad," and it suggests "our roads are efficiently managing a high volume of patriotic travelers." Another app, "ThoughtPurifier," uses your phone's front camera to analyze your facial expression while you browse. If it detects a frown while reading news, it automatically closes the tab and plays a video of fireworks. The government promotes them as tools for mental peace, reducing the stress of encountering conflicting viewpoints. Critics call them "thought handrails," but users love them. Why wrestle with complex ideas when an app can gently guide you back to comfortable, state-approved contentment? -- Bohiney Magazne bohiney.com