Russia’s government has announced that its newly developed state-backed messaging application, Max, will be pre-installed on all devices sold within the country starting September 1. This initiative marks a significant shift in the digital landscape as the government aims to consolidate its control over communication platforms.
Features and Purpose of Max
According to an official statement, Max is designed to function as a multifunctional information exchange service. It will provide secure messaging capabilities alongside convenient digital services sourced from both governmental and business sectors. This move is intended to enhance the accessibility of domestic services while ensuring user security.
Max will replace the existing standalone messenger from VK, a major player in the tech industry, which has been included in the government’s mandatory pre-installation list since 2023. Since 2021, Russian authorities have mandated that smartphones, tablets, and computers must come equipped with domestic software, further emphasizing the push for local digital solutions.
Context of the Rollout
This rollout occurs amid increasing scrutiny and restrictions on foreign messaging services. Reports have surfaced of disruptions affecting WhatsApp and Telegram calls since early August, prompting the state regulator, Roskomnadzor, to announce a partial blocking of calls. This action is framed as a measure to combat fraud, extortion, and terrorism.
In a related development, independent news outlets have indicated that the Kremlin has instructed officials and lawmakers to transition their Telegram channels to Max. The State Duma’s press office confirmed that it will now exclusively post comments on Max, discontinuing its presence on Telegram.
Broader Implications
Critics of the initiative view the introduction of Max as part of a broader strategy to tighten state control over the internet. Authorities justify these measures as essential for protecting minors and combating terrorism, yet concerns persist regarding the implications for freedom of expression and privacy.
In addition to Max, the government revealed that the mandatory pre-installation list will also include the domestic app store RuStore for Apple devices starting September 1, and the free TV app Lime HD TV for smart TVs, set to launch on January 1, 2026.
Kremlin-Backed Messaging App Max to Come Pre-Installed on Devices Starting Next Month
Russia’s government has announced that its newly developed state-backed messaging application, Max, will be pre-installed on all devices sold within the country starting September 1. This initiative marks a significant shift in the digital landscape as the government aims to consolidate its control over communication platforms.
Features and Purpose of Max
According to an official statement, Max is designed to function as a multifunctional information exchange service. It will provide secure messaging capabilities alongside convenient digital services sourced from both governmental and business sectors. This move is intended to enhance the accessibility of domestic services while ensuring user security.
Max will replace the existing standalone messenger from VK, a major player in the tech industry, which has been included in the government’s mandatory pre-installation list since 2023. Since 2021, Russian authorities have mandated that smartphones, tablets, and computers must come equipped with domestic software, further emphasizing the push for local digital solutions.
Context of the Rollout
This rollout occurs amid increasing scrutiny and restrictions on foreign messaging services. Reports have surfaced of disruptions affecting WhatsApp and Telegram calls since early August, prompting the state regulator, Roskomnadzor, to announce a partial blocking of calls. This action is framed as a measure to combat fraud, extortion, and terrorism.
In a related development, independent news outlets have indicated that the Kremlin has instructed officials and lawmakers to transition their Telegram channels to Max. The State Duma’s press office confirmed that it will now exclusively post comments on Max, discontinuing its presence on Telegram.
Broader Implications
Critics of the initiative view the introduction of Max as part of a broader strategy to tighten state control over the internet. Authorities justify these measures as essential for protecting minors and combating terrorism, yet concerns persist regarding the implications for freedom of expression and privacy.
In addition to Max, the government revealed that the mandatory pre-installation list will also include the domestic app store RuStore for Apple devices starting September 1, and the free TV app Lime HD TV for smart TVs, set to launch on January 1, 2026.