US EditionRussia Orders State-Backed App Pre-Installed on Devices
The Russian government mandates Max app pre-installation on all devices to enhance internet control and promote domestic software, with 18 million downloads reported during testing.
- From September 1, 2025, Russia will require every new smartphone and tablet sold to include MAX, state-backed messaging app developed by VK, signaling State Duma's shift to official use.
- Faced with disruptions to WhatsApp and Telegram calls, regulators said last week that Roskomnadzor partially blocks calls to combat fraud and terrorism, justifying expanded state internet control.
- MAX's rollout comes after app downloads and testing showed about 18 million downloads; VK Messenger reached roughly 17.9 million users in July, while WhatsApp and Telegram had 97.3 million and 90.8 million users respectively in Russia.
- Security analysts warn that MAX's Russia-based servers allow Federal Security Service easy data access, lacking strong encryption and prompting self-censorship among average Russian users.
- The government also ordered that Apple permit RuStore on iPhones and iPads from Sept. 1 and require LIME HD TV pre-installed on smart TVs starting Jan. 1, 2026, forcing retailers to treat devices without RuStore as defective.
14 Articles
14 Articles
The Russian government announced on Thursday that Russia's state-backed messaging app MAX, which critics say could be used to track users, will have to be pre-installed on all mobile phones and tablets starting next month.
The government has added a VK mixer to the list of apps required to pre-deposit smartphones and tablets.
Kremlin-Backed Messaging App Max to Come Pre-Installed on Devices Starting Next Month
Russia’s new state-backed messaging app Max will come pre-installed on all devices sold in the country starting on Sept. 1, the government announced Thursday. “Max is expected to serve as a multifunctional information exchange service, offering secure messaging and convenient digital services from both government and business,” an official statement read.
The introduction of Max's application on all devices will be mandatory from 1 September 2025, which replaces VK Messenger in the corresponding list of applications. About the decision, signed by the Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Mihail...
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