A new messenger app named Max, developed by Russian tech company VK, will be pre-installed on all new digital devices sold in Russia starting September. Analysts express concerns that Max, which integrates messaging, video calls, government services, and mobile payments, could be used as a surveillance tool by the Kremlin due to its architecture and local server location. There are fears that it may enable the government to monitor citizens closely, with a potential ban on popular apps like WhatsApp to steer users towards Max. Russian opposition journalist Andrey Okun has described Max as part of a "digital gulag" that allows for strict government oversight of citizens. Experts suggest that the introduction of Max is part of a broader initiative to enhance state surveillance capabilities. The Russian government has previously expressed frustration with foreign apps complicating surveillance, and attempts to block platforms like Telegram have had limited success, indicating a potential increase in efforts to control messaging services in the future.