Russia’s government on Thursday announced that MAX, a state-backed messaging app and rival to WhatsApp, must be pre-installed on all mobile phones and tablets sold in the country starting September 1.
The move is part of Moscow’s broader push to tighten control over its digital space amid tensions with the West over the war in Ukraine. Officials say MAX, developed by state-controlled tech company VK, will integrate with government services and provide a “secure” alternative to foreign platforms.
Critics, however, argue that the app could be used as a surveillance tool. Opposition figures have labeled it a “spying app,” though state media insists MAX requests fewer data permissions than WhatsApp or Telegram.
Alongside MAX, Russia’s RuStore app store will now come pre-installed on Apple devices as well as Android, while smart TVs sold from January 1 must ship with LIME HD TV, a free service offering state-run channels.
The decision comes just weeks after Moscow restricted some WhatsApp and Telegram calls, accusing the platforms of failing to assist in law enforcement investigations. WhatsApp, which boasts 97.3 million users in Russia, condemned the move as an attack on secure communications, while Telegram, with 90.8 million users, said it actively combats misuse.
Despite the skepticism, MAX claims 18 million downloads to date, though parts of the service remain in testing. Authorities tout the app as safer than foreign rivals, even as police recently reported their first fraud arrest linked to the platform.
Observers say the rollout of MAX is less about innovation and more about enforcing digital sovereignty, giving the Kremlin a tighter grip over online communications.
