Apple removes Russian state-backed messaging app Max from App Store
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Daryna Antoniuk
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Summary
Apple has removed Russia's state-backed messaging app Max (Макс) from its App Store, preventing new downloads on iPhones and iPads. Existing users can still use the app but will no longer receive updates or notifications. Russian officials, including Digital Development Minister Maksut Shadaev, criticized the move as "unfriendly" and claimed Apple did not explain its decision. The app was promoted by Russian authorities as a domestic alternative to foreign messaging platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp.
Key quotes
· 3 pulledThe app disappeared from Apple's marketplace this week, according to Max's press service, making it unavailable for download on iPhones and iPads.
Users who had already installed the application can still use it but no longer receive updates or notifications, the company said.
Russia's Digital Development Minister, Maksut Shadaev, said on Thursday that Apple had not explained the decision to the app's developers
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