messaging services

AppWizard
August 26, 2025
Spotify is introducing a new feature called Messages that allows users aged 16 and older to engage in direct messaging within the app. This feature will launch this week in select markets on mobile devices. Users can share songs, podcasts, and audiobooks directly within Spotify, rather than relying on external messaging apps. The addition of Messages is based on user feedback indicating a desire for a dedicated space for sharing content. Users can message individuals they have previously interacted with, receive suggestions based on shared activities, and manage message requests. The feature includes options to block accounts and report inappropriate content, with industry-standard encryption for user data protection. To use Messages, users tap the share icon while listening to content, choose a friend, and send the message.
AppWizard
August 23, 2025
Russia is introducing a government-backed messenger app called Max, developed by VK, which will be mandatory for all new mobile phones and tablets starting in September. The app offers messaging, video calls, mobile payments, and access to state services. Critics express concerns that Max could function as a surveillance tool, collecting personal data such as financial information and location tracking. The Russian government aims to reduce reliance on Western apps, with recent restrictions on services like WhatsApp and Telegram. Max has reportedly achieved 18 million downloads, though some features are still being tested. Additionally, by 2026, Russia plans to require all smart TVs to come preloaded with a state-backed service for government channels.
AppWizard
August 22, 2025
The Russian government has mandated the pre-installation of the Max messenger app on all smartphones and tablets sold in the country as part of an initiative to control foreign social media applications. Max, developed by state-controlled VK, will be available on devices starting September 1 and offers features like messaging, audio and video calls, and money transfers. Approximately 18 million users have registered with Max since its launch in March. Concurrently, Russia is imposing restrictions on WhatsApp and Telegram, accusing them of misuse for "sabotage and terrorist activities." The tensions between Moscow and international tech companies have been escalating, particularly regarding data storage and content regulations, intensified since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
AppWizard
August 22, 2025
The Russian government has mandated that all smartphones and tablets sold in the country must come pre-installed with MAX, a state-backed messaging application, starting September 1, 2025. This initiative is part of a strategy to enhance control over digital communications, requiring devices to also include RuStore, Russia's domestic app store, and from January 1, 2026, all smart TVs sold must feature LIME HD TV. MAX is presented as a secure alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram, which have faced restrictions in Russia due to compliance issues. As of July 2025, WhatsApp had approximately 97.3 million users in Russia, and Telegram had around 90.8 million users. MAX, developed by VK, a state-controlled firm, reported 18 million downloads during testing. Approximately 105 million Russians own smartphones, indicating that about 72 percent of the population possesses one. There were around 216 million mobile connections in Russia as of early 2025.
AppWizard
August 21, 2025
Russia's government will pre-install its state-backed messaging application, Max, on all devices sold in the country starting September 1. Max is designed as a multifunctional information exchange service, providing secure messaging and digital services from governmental and business sectors. It will replace the existing VK messenger, which has been on the mandatory pre-installation list since 2023. This initiative aligns with regulations requiring domestic software on smartphones, tablets, and computers since 2021. The rollout follows increased scrutiny of foreign messaging services, with reports of disruptions to WhatsApp and Telegram calls. The Kremlin has directed officials to transition Telegram channels to Max, and the State Duma will now exclusively post on Max. Additionally, the pre-installation list will include the domestic app store RuStore for Apple devices and the Lime HD TV app for smart TVs, launching in 2026.
AppWizard
August 18, 2025
Russian regulators, through Roskomnadzor, are implementing partial restrictions on phone calls made via WhatsApp and Telegram, citing their use in fraudulent activities. This action is part of a strategy to promote a government-managed "super app" called Max, developed by VK, which aims to consolidate various services into one platform. The initiative aims to enhance oversight over communications and information access for Russian citizens. WhatsApp has acknowledged the restrictions while emphasizing the importance of maintaining end-to-end encryption. Activist Mikhail Klimarev has warned that severe restrictions could negatively impact the economy and public perception.
AppWizard
August 15, 2025
The Russian government has imposed restrictions on voice calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram as part of its efforts to tighten control over the internet amid the conflict in Ukraine. These restrictions affect approximately 96 million monthly WhatsApp users and over 89 million Telegram users in Russia. The regulator, Roskomnadzor, cited concerns from law enforcement about criminal activities occurring on these platforms. Access to voice calls will be restored only if the companies comply with Russian laws, including providing user data to law enforcement. Users have also reported disruptions to video calls. The government recently enacted a law penalizing online users for searching content deemed illicit and plans to promote a domestic messaging app named Max. WhatsApp defended its commitment to user privacy, while Telegram highlighted its measures against misuse.
AppWizard
August 14, 2025
The Kremlin has directed government officials and lawmakers to shift their Telegram channels to the domestic messaging platform, Max, to establish a "priority information system." Channels from the State Duma, regional governors, and pro-Kremlin commentators are expected to launch on Max soon, managed by the state-supported nonprofit, Dialog. While officials will still use Telegram, utilizing Max for work-related communications is now mandatory. State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin has already transitioned to Max, which will be the exclusive platform for official communications. Additionally, the Russian authorities have begun imposing partial restrictions on voice calls through Telegram and WhatsApp due to complaints about scams and other illegal activities, although these functionalities could be reinstated if the apps comply with Russian legal standards.
AppWizard
August 14, 2025
Russia's communications watchdog, Roskomnadzor, announced restrictions on calls made through WhatsApp and Telegram to combat criminal activities. The agency claims these messaging apps have become primary channels for fraud, extortion, and recruitment for subversive actions. Russian security services allege that Ukraine uses Telegram for recruitment and sabotage. The government seeks greater control over user data for investigations into fraud and terrorism. Restrictions will be lifted once the platforms comply with local legislation. Telegram stated it actively prevents misuse of its platform, while WhatsApp expressed concerns over the implications of these restrictions on user privacy and security.
AppWizard
August 13, 2025
Russian authorities have announced partial restrictions on calls made through Telegram and WhatsApp, citing concerns about crime and misuse of these platforms. Roskomnadzor claims these messaging services are used for deception, extortion, and terrorist activities. The government has expressed frustration over the lack of cooperation from the platform owners regarding countermeasures. Recent reports indicate users are experiencing difficulties with calls on these applications. WhatsApp had over 96 million monthly users and Telegram had more than 89 million in Russia as of July. In Crimea, cellphone internet shutdowns may last indefinitely, and a new law penalizes users for accessing illicit content. A new national messaging app, MAX, is being developed by VK, a Russian company. Access to calls via WhatsApp and Telegram could be restored if the platforms comply with Russian laws, but current restrictions only apply to audio calls.
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