Russia has opened a new antitrust case against Apple, accusing the company of failing to preload government-backed apps on iPhones and iPads. The investigation marks the latest chapter in a dispute that has lasted for years. If regulators rule against Apple, the company could face a fine of up to 4 billion rubles, or nearly $50 million.
The case centers on two applications: Max, a state-backed messaging platform, and RuStore, a domestic app marketplace. Russian authorities argue that Apple failed to include these apps on devices used in the country.
Apple No Longer Sells Devices in Russia
Apple stopped selling products directly in Russia after the country’s invasion of Ukraine in March 2022. The company also ended sales through its authorized reseller network. Today, third-party retailers handle iPhone sales within Russia.
Because of that decision, some observers question why Apple should be required to preload software on devices it no longer sells directly. Nevertheless, Russian regulators have continued pursuing enforcement under the country’s competition laws.
A Long History of Regulatory Pressure
Russia has pushed technology companies to include locally developed software for several years. In 2019, officials warned that devices without approved Russian software could face restrictions. Apple later made limited changes, including allowing a Russian search engine to be preinstalled in iOS 26.6.
The company also removed several apps from the Russian App Store in recent years. These included VPN applications and independent media apps that authorities labeled as undesirable. In 2023, Apple paid an antitrust fine related to its in-app payment system. Later sanctions also affected Apple Services subscriptions and payments within Russia.
Tensions Extend Beyond App Distribution
Relations between Apple and Russian authorities remain strained. In 2023, Apple warned Russian journalists about suspected state-sponsored spyware targeting their devices. Meanwhile, Russian officials accused Apple of helping the United States monitor iPhone users.
These conflicting claims have added to the broader political and legal tensions surrounding the company in the region.
What Happens Next?
Russia’s antitrust investigation is still underway, and no final ruling has been announced. If regulators determine that Apple violated competition laws, the company could receive one of its largest fines in the country. The outcome may also influence how global technology firms respond to local software requirements in markets with increasing regulatory demands.
