Particle.news
Download on the App Store
4 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

Russia Orders State-Backed Max Messenger Preinstalled on All New Phones From Sept. 1

The decree advances the Kremlin’s push to replace foreign messaging with a state-run ecosystem.

Image
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • RuStore, the Russian app marketplace, must be preinstalled on new iPhones and Xiaomi HyperOS devices, while Android and Huawei HarmonyOS phones in Russia already ship with it.
  • All Smart TVs sold in Russia will carry the LIME HD TV app for state channels by Jan. 1 under the same rollout plan.
  • Regulator Roskomnadzor has partially blocked voice and video calls on WhatsApp and Telegram, citing fraud and security concerns as the justification.
  • VK’s Max reports roughly 18 million downloads, far below WhatsApp’s 97.3 million users and Telegram’s 90.8 million users in Russia.
  • Authorities are directing officials and media channels to migrate to Max, with the Duma press office stating releases will be posted exclusively there.