Russia orders state-backed Max messenger app to be pre-installed on new phones
Russia has ordered a state-backed messenger app called Max, a rival to WhatsApp, to be pre-installed on all mobile phones and tablets sold in the country starting from September 1st. The decision is seen as a move by Moscow to exert greater control over the internet amid the ongoing standoff with the West over Ukraine. Critics argue that Max could be used to track users, though state media claims it is not a spying app. The Kremlin stated that Max will be integrated with government services and will be on a list of mandatory pre-installed apps on all "gadgets" sold in Russia. The firm behind Max reported that 18 million users have downloaded the app, which is still in a testing phase. This move by the Russian government is viewed as an attempt to promote a domestic alternative to foreign messaging platforms and tighten its grip on digital communication within the country.
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