Kremlins State-Sponsored Messaging App Max to Be Mandatory on All Devices in Russia from September 1

Russia’s new government-supported messaging application, Max, will be pre-loaded on all devices sold within the country beginning September 1, the government announced on Thursday.

«Max is anticipated to function as a versatile platform for information sharing, providing secure messaging along with convenient digital services from both governmental bodies and businesses,» a statement from officials stated.

This app will take the place of a standalone messenger previously offered by tech company VK, which has been on the list of applications mandated for pre-installation since 2023. Since 2021, Russia has mandated that smartphones, tablets, and computers come equipped with domestic software.

This decision comes as authorities are implementing restrictions on foreign messaging platforms, with users reporting issues with calls on WhatsApp and Telegram since the beginning of August. Last week, the state regulator Roskomnadzor announced it was “partially” blocking calls in an effort to tackle fraud, extortion, and terrorism.

Previously, independent media outlets reported that the Kremlin instructed officials and lawmakers to transition their Telegram channels to Max. The press office of the State Duma indicated on Thursday that it would now be sharing comments exclusively through Max and discontinue using Telegram.

Critics view this initiative as part of broader attempts to enhance state oversight of the internet, which the authorities defend as essential for protecting minors and combating terrorism.

Additionally, on Thursday, the government announced that the mandatory pre-installation list would incorporate the domestic app store RuStore for Apple devices starting September 1, along with the free TV application Lime HD TV for smart TVs, beginning January 1, 2026.