Russia in talks with Apple over removal of "Max" from App store

Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development says it is in discussions with Apple over the removal of the Russian messaging app “Max” from the App Store, according to officials.

Maksut Shadayev, head of the ministry, confirmed ongoing talks with the U.S. tech company but did not provide further details, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media. 

“We are in negotiations,” Shadayev told reporters.

The comments follow the disappearance of the “Max” app from Apple’s App Store earlier this week, reportedly affecting access for more than 20 million users in Russia.

On June 4, Shadayev said Apple had restricted access to the app without explanation. A day earlier, on June 3, the app became unavailable for download. Developers of “Max” said they had contacted Apple seeking clarification and were working to resolve the issue

By Sabina Mammadli