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Surveillance tool or accessible messenger? All we know about MAX, Russia's alternative after WhatsApp fully blocked
AppWizard
February 12, 2026

Surveillance tool or accessible messenger? All we know about MAX, Russia’s alternative after WhatsApp fully blocked

The Russian government has fully blocked Meta's WhatsApp due to its non-compliance with local laws. In response, the Kremlin has promoted MAX, a state-backed messaging application introduced in 2025. MAX aims to serve as a universal mobile application, consolidating various digital services and was pre-installed on smartphones sold in Russia from September 2025. The Kremlin claims MAX is an accessible alternative for users, but critics view it as a potential surveillance tool due to its design that collects extensive user data and lacks end-to-end encryption.
Google Wallet rolling out adding passport IDs on Android
AppWizard
December 12, 2024

Google Wallet rolling out adding passport IDs on Android

Google Wallet is rolling out the ability to add a passport as a form of ID within its Android app, following a successful testing phase in October. This feature is now available for users, particularly benefiting those in states without a digital ID, and is accessible through the “Add to Wallet” option in the app. Users can add their passport by taking a picture of the information page, scanning the security chip inside the back cover, and recording a video of their face for identity verification. This feature is available with version 24.47.35 of Google Play services for Android devices running version 9 and above. At airport security, travelers can use their digital passport by scanning a QR code or tapping their phone near an NFC reader. The digital passport is not a government-issued ID and should not replace physical identification, especially for international travel. Users can remove their ID pass if their phone is lost by visiting myaccount.google.com.
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