Russia has made it mandatory for all smartphones and tablets sold in the country to come pre-installed with MAX, a state-backed messaging application that Moscow is promoting as a rival to WhatsApp and Telegram.
The new rule, announced by the Russian government, will take effect from September 1, 2025, and is part of the Kremlin’s broader strategy to strengthen control over digital communications and internet services, Reuters news report said.
The government confirmed that MAX will be included in the official list of compulsory apps, alongside other Russian platforms such as RuStore, the country’s domestic app store, which will also be required on all Apple devices in addition to Android phones. From January 1, 2026, all smart TVs sold in Russia must also pre-install LIME HD TV, a streaming app offering free access to state-run television channels.
Russian officials argue that MAX offers a safer and more privacy-conscious experience compared to foreign-owned rivals. State media claims the app requires fewer permissions to access user data than WhatsApp and Telegram, dismissing Western accusations that the messenger could serve as a government surveillance tool. However, Kremlin critics warn that the mandatory rollout of MAX is part of Moscow’s wider efforts to monitor digital communications as tensions with the West continue over the Ukraine conflict.
The push for MAX comes after Russia began restricting some calls made through WhatsApp, owned by Meta Platforms, and Telegram, citing non-cooperation with law enforcement in combating fraud and terrorism. WhatsApp, which had 97.3 million users in Russia in July 2025, accused the Kremlin of trying to block secure communication channels. Telegram, with 90.8 million users, defended its policies by stating it actively prevents harmful activity on its platform.
Despite the dominance of WhatsApp and Telegram, Russia’s homegrown messengers are gaining traction. According to Mediascope, VK Messenger ranked third in popularity with 17.9 million users, while MAX recently reported 18 million downloads during its testing phase. MAX is developed by VK, the state-controlled technology company that already operates popular Russian social and communication platforms.
In a sign of growing adoption, Russia’s Interior Ministry claimed this week that MAX is safer than foreign messengers, although it also confirmed the arrest of a suspect in the country’s first fraud case using the new app.
The mandatory installation of MAX, along with RuStore and LIME HD TV, signals Russia’s determination to reduce reliance on foreign-owned apps and boost state-backed digital ecosystems. By prioritizing local platforms, the Kremlin aims to reshape the country’s online environment, potentially limiting Russian citizens’ access to global communication tools while promoting homegrown alternatives.
How Many Smartphone Users Are There in Russia?
The latest report in Statista indicated that 105 million Russians own a smartphone, making it the largest in Europe in terms of smartphone ownership.
As of January 1, 2025, Russia’s population was approximately 146 million. This suggests that about 72 percent of the entire population owns a smartphone.
There were around 216 million mobile connections reported in early 2025 — about 150 percent of the population — but this includes multiple SIMs and isn’t a direct indicator of unique smartphone users.
Baburajan Kizhakedath
