Russia has introduced a new digital solution that will enable the country's local apps to function even without an internet connection. The objective is to ensure citizens have access to social media, ride-sharing, and payment services, even during situations like internet blackouts. The Russian government has released a list of apps, excluding American applications, to prioritize local ones.
Russia mobile apps: Russia has developed a technological solution that will allow the country's local apps to work without internet connectivity. This initiative aims to provide citizens with seamless access to social media, ride-sharing, and government services in the event of an internet blackout or network shutdown. The Russian Ministry of Digital Development has issued a list of these apps, prioritizing local ones, while American apps like WhatsApp and Telegram are not included. Starting September 1st, it will be mandatory to pre-install Max Messenger on smartphones sold in the country.
List of Local Apps Released
Russia has introduced a new technological solution that will enable the country's local apps to function even without an internet connection. The purpose is to provide citizens with access to social media, ride-sharing, and payment apps, even during situations like internet blackouts. The Russian government has also released a list of apps that will operate under this facility.
This list primarily includes social media apps, apps related to ride-sharing services like Ola-Uber, government, and payment apps. American apps like WhatsApp and Telegram have not been included in the list, making it clear that Russia is prioritizing local applications.
No Trouble When Internet is Down
According to Russia's Ministry of Digital Development, this technology has been created to protect citizens from the problems that arise when the internet is unavailable. Although it has not been officially linked to drone attacks from Ukraine, it has been stated by governors in border areas that the internet is frequently shut down during such attacks.
Through this technology, apps will remain active offline, allowing people to use digital services even during blackouts. The government has released the list to make users aware so that they can benefit from the apps in a timely manner.
Promoting Local Apps
Since the Russia-Ukraine war, Russia has been promoting local apps and has banned several foreign applications. Despite popular apps like WhatsApp and Telegram, Russia has prioritized VK Messenger and Max Messenger.
Starting September 1st, all smartphones sold in the country will be required to have Max Messenger pre-installed. Its user base is rapidly increasing, which will help enhance digital autonomy and the utility of local apps within the country.
