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Apple removes Russia’s state-backed messaging app Max from its store
AppWizard
June 5, 2026

Apple removes Russia’s state-backed messaging app Max from its store

Apple has removed the state-backed messaging app Max from its App Store, leading to criticism from Russian officials who deemed the action "unfriendly." Max is no longer available for download on iPhones and iPads, although existing users can still access it without updates. Russia's Digital Development Minister, Maksut Shadaev, stated that the removal denies access to about 20 million Russians and that Apple provided no explanation to the app's developers. Apple cited compliance with sanctions regulations as the reason for the removal but did not specify which sanctions. Max remains available on Android devices through Google Play and RuStore. The app, promoted by Russian authorities as an alternative to foreign platforms, was developed by VK and integrates messaging, voice calls, and access to government services. At the time of removal, Max was the ninth most downloaded app in Russia's App Store. Russian officials have criticized Apple, with some labeling the company as "enemies." Digital rights advocates have raised concerns about Max's ties to the government and lack of encryption, suggesting potential monitoring of users. Apple has a history of removing apps from the Russian store, but Max's removal does not appear to be linked to a specific government request.
After Apple yanks Max from App Store, VIPs still toast the Kremlin-linked messenger at SPIEF
AppWizard
June 5, 2026

After Apple yanks Max from App Store, VIPs still toast the Kremlin-linked messenger at SPIEF

A private VK Night party celebrated the launch of the Max messenger during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, hosted by Ksenia Sobchak and attended by Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadaev and VK CEO Vladimir Kiriyenko. The event featured performances by pop singers Vanya Dmitriyenko and Lolita Milyavskaya. The Max messenger was removed from the App Store on June 3 due to compliance with sanctions, despite previously ranking ninth among the most-downloaded apps in Russia.
Apple removed messenger "Max" from the App Store due to sanctions
AppWizard
June 5, 2026

Apple removed messenger “Max” from the App Store due to sanctions

Apple has removed the messaging application "Max" from its App Store, citing legal obligations but not specifying the reasons. The app, developed by VK, is no longer available for new downloads, but existing users can still use it without interruption. VK has advised users to manually open the app to receive notifications and noted that "Max" can still be accessed through other app stores. The app was launched in 2025 and had over 100 million registered users by 2026.
Apple has removed the Russian messaging app Max from the App Store due to sanctions
AppWizard
June 5, 2026

Apple has removed the Russian messaging app Max from the App Store due to sanctions

On June 3rd, the messaging application Max was removed from the Apple App Store for Russian users as part of Apple's compliance with unspecified sanctions. The app is no longer available for download or searchable in the App Store, and direct links to it result in error messages. However, users who had previously installed Max can still use the app. Last summer, the Russian government mandated the installation of Max on all new smartphones as part of a strategy to promote it and limit competing platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp.
FEMITBOT Network Abuses Telegram Mini Apps for Crypto Scams and Android Malware
AppWizard
May 5, 2026

FEMITBOT Network Abuses Telegram Mini Apps for Crypto Scams and Android Malware

A fraud network called FEMITBOT has emerged, using Telegram's Mini App feature to conduct investment scams and distribute malware. Identified by the research firm CTM360, the network operates through API responses and presents itself as organized. The scams involve Telegram Mini Apps that display phishing pages, fake dashboards showing fictitious earnings, and urgency tactics to pressure users into making quick decisions. FEMITBOT mimics well-known brands like Apple and Coca-Cola to enhance credibility and disseminates Android malware disguised as legitimate applications. The operation is highly organized, utilizing marketing tools to optimize their scams. Users are warned to be cautious of bots requesting deposits before granting access to funds.
You know it's bad for AI when even Peter Molyneux, king of overpromising, is tepid on its use in game dev: 'I think we have to be very, very careful'
AppWizard
April 22, 2026

You know it’s bad for AI when even Peter Molyneux, king of overpromising, is tepid on its use in game dev: ‘I think we have to be very, very careful’

Peter Molyneux expressed skepticism about the current capabilities of artificial intelligence in gaming, stating that "AI is not of a high enough quality for us to really use in games right now." He emphasized the need for caution and responsibility in applying AI technology. Molyneux acknowledged AI's potential for disruption but highlighted humanity's ability to adapt to emerging technologies. His views contrast with other gaming companies that have faced backlash for integrating AI into their projects. Molyneux's cautious stance serves as a reminder that AI's applications are still evolving and can lead to unintended consequences in creative processes.
Alexander Morton, the voice of Geralt's pal Zoltan in The Witcher games, has died
AppWizard
April 17, 2026

Alexander Morton, the voice of Geralt’s pal Zoltan in The Witcher games, has died

Alexander Morton, known for voicing Zoltan Chivay in The Witcher video games, has passed away. CD Projekt, the game's developer, expressed their sorrow in a tribute. Morton was also recognized for his role as Golly Mackenzie in the series Monarch of the Glen, which significantly contributed to the show's success. Louise Thornton from BBC Scotland highlighted his impact on Scottish television and theatre. Morton's career spanned several decades, starting in the 1970s, and he was celebrated for his theatrical performances. Fellow actor Robert Carlyle praised him as a brilliant actor and a kind person. Alexander Morton was 81 years old at the time of his passing.
TommyInnit Presenting '100 Questions' YouTube Series With Stephen Fry
AppWizard
April 15, 2026

TommyInnit Presenting ‘100 Questions’ YouTube Series With Stephen Fry

TommyInnit, whose real name is Tom Simons, is launching a new series called 100 Questions with Tom Simons as part of Sony’s international digital initiative. The show will feature TommyInnit engaging in conversations with various guests, asking exactly 100 questions before concluding the interview. The inaugural episodes will include guests such as British actor Stephen Fry, physicist Professor Brian Cox, and content creators like Stampy, James Marriott, and Sweet Anita. The series is designed for digital audiences and will air on Sony's YouTube channel as well as TommyInnit's personal platforms. TommyInnit has over 50 million followers across various platforms and holds the Guinness World Record for the most-followed Minecraft channel on Twitch. The initiative is part of Sony Pictures Television International Production’s digital arm, led by Matt Ford and Sacha Khari, aiming to create original concepts for digital audiences. TommyInnit is represented by MonRae Management.
Minecraft Supremo TommyInnit Presenting Sony’s Debut Digital Series With First Guest Stephen Fry
AppWizard
April 15, 2026

Minecraft Supremo TommyInnit Presenting Sony’s Debut Digital Series With First Guest Stephen Fry

TommyInnit, whose real name is Tom Simons, is launching a new series titled "100 Questions with Tom Simons" under Sony’s international digital arm. The show will feature TommyInnit engaging in conversations with various guests, with each episode consisting of exactly 100 questions. The inaugural episodes will include guests such as Stephen Fry, Professor Brian Cox, and content creators like Stampy, James Marriott, and Sweet Anita. The series is described as a “creator-led series designed for digital audiences” and will have a dedicated YouTube channel for full episodes and additional clips. This initiative is part of Sony Pictures Television International Production’s digital division, led by Matt Ford and Sacha Khari. TommyInnit has over 50 million followers across platforms and holds a Guinness World Record for the most-followed Minecraft channel on Twitch. He expressed excitement about the venture, noting it allows him to push beyond his comfort zone.
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