Russia has announced that starting September 1, all mobile phones and tablets sold in the country must come with MAX, a state-backed messaging application, pre-installed. Positioned as a local alternative to WhatsApp, MAX has already drawn criticism from Kremlin opponents who argue it could be used as a tool for surveillance. The decision highlights Moscow’s strategy to exert greater control over the digital landscape as its tensions with Western countries remain high due to the conflict in Ukraine. According to government statements, MAX will also be integrated with official government services, further entrenching its role as a mandatory app for citizens.
In addition to MAX, Russia has confirmed that RuStore, the domestic app marketplace pre-installed on Android devices, will now also come by default on Apple devices sold in the country. This requirement is aimed at ensuring wider access to locally developed applications, strengthening the state’s influence in the digital ecosystem. Another measure announced is the mandatory pre-installation of LIME HD TV, a Russian-language streaming app that offers free access to state television channels, on all smart TVs starting from January 1, 2026. Officials argue these steps are designed to reduce reliance on foreign platforms and enhance digital sovereignty, while critics describe them as another layer of state control over communication and media.
The introduction of MAX follows recent restrictions imposed by Russian authorities on WhatsApp and Telegram. Authorities accused the two platforms, both foreign-owned, of failing to share necessary information with law enforcement in cases linked to fraud and terrorism. WhatsApp, which had a reach of 97.3 million users in Russia as of July, condemned the restrictions as an attempt to block secure communication for citizens. Telegram, used by 90.8 million people, stated that it continues to act against harmful use of its platform but is also under scrutiny from Moscow. State-backed alternatives, meanwhile, are gaining momentum. VK Messenger, also operated by VK — the company behind MAX — was the country’s third most popular app with 17.9 million users in July.
MAX reported this week that it has already been downloaded by 18 million users, although parts of the app remain in testing. Russian state media has defended MAX against accusations that it is a spying tool, claiming it requests fewer permissions than WhatsApp or Telegram. The Interior Ministry further described MAX as safer than its rivals, though officials acknowledged the platform has already been linked to fraudulent activities. Authorities confirmed that a suspect was recently sacked in connection with the first fraud case carried out using the new messenger. Despite these challenges, Moscow insists that the widespread rollout of MAX, alongside RuStore and LIME HD TV, marks a decisive step toward reshaping the country’s digital infrastructure under state oversight.
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