Russia’s state-backed messaging platform, Max, has been removed from Apple’s App Store, according to the application’s developers, in a setback for Moscow’s campaign to promote the service as a homegrown alternative to foreign communication platforms.
In a statement released on Thursday, the developers confirmed that the application became unavailable on Apple’s marketplace overnight, preventing new users from downloading it. The company, however, noted that the service remains functional for existing users who had previously installed it.
“Max is temporarily unavailable for download in the App Store.”
Neither Apple nor Russian authorities have provided an official explanation for the removal.
Developed by Russian technology company VK and launched in 2025, Max was designed as a multifunctional platform offering messaging, social networking, banking services, digital identification, and access to government services. The application has been heavily promoted by the Kremlin as part of efforts to reduce dependence on foreign technology platforms.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has previously championed the app as a secure solution aligned with the country’s goal of achieving “technological sovereignty”.
The removal comes amid ongoing restrictions on Russian-linked applications by major Western technology firms. While existing installations remain operational, the app can no longer be downloaded or updated through Apple’s platform.
Privacy advocates have also raised concerns about the service, citing its lack of end-to-end encryption and the storage of user data on servers located exclusively within Russia.
