Anton Nemkin, a prominent member of the Russian State Duma’s Information Policy Committee, has taken a firm stance against the swirling rumors surrounding the country’s newly launched national messenger app, Max. In a recent statement to state media, he dismissed claims that the app would utilize artificial intelligence to monitor and report on citizens, labeling such assertions as “pure science fiction.”
Clarifying Max’s Functionality
According to Nemkin, Max operates similarly to other messaging applications, enabling users to send messages, make calls, and share files seamlessly. He emphasized that the app is designed to facilitate communication rather than surveillance. “Most people’s smartphones have long had apps from major companies and state services preinstalled — Sber, VTB, Gosuslugi,” he noted. “In all the years they’ve operated, there hasn’t been a single case of built-in AI being used for ‘denunciations’ or tracking users’ personal actions.”
Nemkin expressed concern that rumors regarding AI surveillance within Max are being propagated with the intent to “undermine trust in domestic digital products.” He reassured users that Max undergoes the same rigorous security checks as other applications, reinforcing its commitment to providing a secure communication platform.
Government Mandates and Market Dynamics
Since September 1, Russian authorities have mandated that Max be pre-installed on all smartphones sold within the country, although major brands like Apple and Samsung continue to sell devices without the app. This move comes in the wake of the government blocking calling features on popular alternatives such as WhatsApp and Telegram, further solidifying Max’s position in the market.
As the Kremlin promotes its own messaging platform, the reluctance of even officials to adopt Max highlights the challenges it faces in gaining widespread acceptance. The current climate, particularly amid an active campaign season, has led to skepticism about the app’s viability and the motivations behind its promotion.
