Apple has made headlines this week by removing the state-backed messaging app Max (Макс) from its App Store, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from Russian officials who have labeled it “unfriendly.” According to Max’s press service, the app has vanished from Apple’s marketplace, rendering it unavailable for download on iPhones and iPads. While users who previously installed the app can still access it, they will no longer receive updates or notifications.
Official Reactions and Implications
Maksut Shadaev, Russia’s Digital Development Minister, expressed his discontent on Thursday, stating that Apple had not provided any explanation to the app’s developers. He emphasized that the removal effectively denies access to approximately 20 million Russians. In response to inquiries, Apple has remained silent on the specifics of its decision but did inform BBC Russia that the app’s removal was “in compliance with sanctions regulations,” without detailing which sanctions were applicable.
Following the app’s exit from the App Store, Russian media reported a notable decline in user activity on the platform, with fewer posts and active channels being observed. However, Max continues to be accessible on Android devices via Google Play and Russia’s RuStore.
- Max is promoted by Russian authorities as a domestic alternative to foreign messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp.
- Since September of last year, manufacturers have been mandated to preinstall the app on devices sold in Russia.
Developed by VK, one of Russia’s largest technology firms, Max is designed to emulate China’s WeChat, integrating messaging and voice calls with access to government services, digital identification, electronic signatures, and payment functionalities. Authorities assert that the platform boasts a daily audience exceeding 60 million users.
At the time of its removal, Max was the ninth most downloaded application in Russia’s App Store, as reported by the independent outlet Meduza. The remaining top spots were occupied by virtual private network (VPN) services, reflecting a growing trend among users seeking alternatives amidst tightening restrictions.
Shift Towards Domestic Services
In light of Western technology companies scaling back operations in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine, officials have increasingly encouraged citizens to adopt domestic digital services. Concurrently, the Kremlin has intensified its efforts to exert control over online communications, often restricting access to foreign platforms and services.
Digital rights advocates have raised concerns about Max, arguing that its close ties to government infrastructure and the absence of end-to-end encryption could facilitate monitoring of users’ communications and activities. In a notable incident earlier this year, internet infrastructure provider Cloudflare briefly classified Max as spyware, a designation that was later rescinded. Max representatives attributed the classification to a “misunderstanding” of web analytics traffic rather than any evidence of malicious intent.
In the wake of Apple’s decision, Russian officials have not held back in their condemnation. Mikhail Oseevsky, head of telecommunications operator Rostelecom, referred to Apple as “enemies” and characterized the move as “absolutely unfriendly.” Meanwhile, Max’s developers have sought clarification from Apple regarding the removal and are actively working on a solution.
Historically, Apple has removed apps from the Russian App Store, often in response to requests from Russian authorities. However, the circumstances surrounding Max’s removal appear to differ, as it has not been linked to any specific request from the government. Reports indicate that Apple routinely removes VPN applications from its Russian store at the behest of the internet regulator Roskomnadzor.
