Russia has initiated an antitrust investigation into Apple, alleging the company’s non-compliance with local regulations mandating the preinstallation of state-backed applications on its devices. The Federal Antimonopoly Service (FAS) contends that Apple failed to include the Max messaging app and the RuStore app marketplace on iPhones and iPads sold within the country.
The FAS had previously issued a warning to Apple, instructing the company to preinstall these national applications. Apple’s alleged failure to adhere to this directive has led to the current legal proceedings. If found guilty, Apple could face a fine of up to 4 billion rubles (approximately $52 million).
This development is part of a broader pattern of tension between Apple and Russian authorities. In June 2026, Apple removed the Max app from its App Store, citing compliance with international sanctions. This action rendered the app unavailable for new downloads, though existing users could continue to use it without receiving updates or push notifications. The removal drew criticism from Russian officials, who labeled the move as “unfriendly.”
Further escalating the situation, Apple also removed several other Russian applications, including VKontakte, the country’s largest social media platform, and Yandex Pay, from its App Store. These removals were reportedly in response to Western sanctions imposed on Russia. The Russian Ministry of Digital Development described Apple’s actions as “politically motivated” and a manifestation of “unfair competition.”
In April 2026, Apple ceased payment processing for purchases made across the App Store and other Apple services in Russia. This decision affected various services, including Apple Music, Apple TV, and iCloud+, and was reportedly in response to an order from the Russian government.
Apple has faced previous antitrust scrutiny in Russia. In January 2023, the FAS fined the company $17.4 million for allegedly abusing its dominant position in the app distribution market by requiring developers to use its in-app payment system.
This ongoing conflict underscores the challenges multinational tech companies face when operating in markets with stringent local regulations and geopolitical tensions. The outcome of this antitrust case could have significant implications for Apple’s operations in Russia and may influence how other tech giants navigate similar regulatory landscapes.
