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Russia Orders State-Backed MAX App Preinstalled on All Phones Starting Sept. 1
Russian government requires all new devices to include state-backed Max messenger, RuStore app, and Lime HD TV to enhance surveillance and control over information flow starting in 2025.
- Russia will require the state-backed MAX app to be preinstalled on all phones starting September 1, as major platforms face increased restrictions and censorship.
- The number of users on MAX has reached 18 million since its limited release in July, according to a recent press release.
- Experts, including Joanna Szymanska from ARTICLE 19, warn that forcing people onto MAX could chill freedom of expression in Russia.
- WhatsApp criticized the Kremlin's actions, stating it "defies government attempts to violate people's right to secure communication," reflecting ongoing censorship efforts.
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When it comes to Vladimir Putin, Russia's citizens should use the new "Max" app for chatting instead of WhatsApp and Co. - but the suspicion that the Kremlin boss wants to spy on his subordinates with the application is stubborn.
Kremlin-Backed Max Messaging App to Come Preinstalled on All Russian Smartphones | News Channel 3-12
By Ryan Hogg, CNN The Russian government will require the state-backed messaging app Max to be pre-installed on all smartphones and tablets sold in the country, in a move that could increase surveillance of the country's citizens. According to an official statement released Thursday, Max will be installed on the devices starting September 1. The RuStore app, a rival to Apple's App Store, will also be pre-installed on iPhones. Additionally, start…
Coverage Details
Total News Sources83
Leaning Left7Leaning Right8Center20Last UpdatedBias Distribution57% Center
Bias Distribution
- 57% of the sources are Center
57% Center
L 20%
C 57%
R 23%
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