Russia Threatens Apple With $52M Fine Over Local Apps

Russia is threatening Apple with a $52 million fine over allegations that it discriminates against state-backed apps by not automatically installing them on iPhones sold in the country. Reuters reports that Russia’s anti-monopoly watchdog is demanding that Apple provide a pre-installation mechanism for VK-linked apps, after Kremlin officials asked Apple for an explanation for their removal from the App Store in late June. Russia says Apple could face nearly 4 billion roubles (about $51.6 million) unless iPhones include the MAX messenger and Russian search engines by a July 15 deadline. Apple has not sold devices in Russia since March 2022 following the Ukraine invasion, and Russian sales have been largely via grey markets. The App Store remains available, but new subscriptions and Apple Services payment options have been unavailable since April 1, 2026.