Some rumors accuse Apple of allowing the Russian government to pick random apps that they find worthy of promoting to the country's residents. On the other hand, some people might ask if the government-approved applications are safe. But, Russia hasn't released any confirmation yet if the government already selected the online services they want the residents to install.
People are seen behind the Apple logo in Apple's flagship London retail store on Regent Street on December 27, 2006 in London, England. With many stores open for the first time since Christmas Eve, bargain hunters are searching for the best buys as the post-Christmas sales get under way.
According to Bloomberg's latest report, the giant tech company announced on Tuesday, Mar. 16, that it will allow the Russian government to promote the applications it wants the people to download.
Furthermore, The Verge previously reported that Apple would also release a new pre-install screen for the devices that the Russian residents will purchase in the future. This new feature will automatically advertise the government-approved applications.
Why Apple allowed Russia to do this
Back in 2019, Russia passed a law that requires manufacturers and other companies to pre-install the apps made by Russian companies. The government explained that this requirement applies to smartphones, tablets, laptops, desktops, and smart televisions sold in the country.
The Apple logo is seen in the Munich downtown pedestrian zone during dawn of the opening day of Germany's first Apple shop on December 6, 2008 in Munich, Germany. The 226th Apple store is the first in Germany and situated close to famous Munich city center Marienplatz.
On the other hand, a Russian source called Vedomosti explained that this law was expected to take effect previously in July 2020. However, the government delayed it and is expected to make the law active in April of this year.
The source added that the apps wouldn't be installed if the users don't want to use them.
The only thing that the government can do is promote them to the people.
What apps will be offered?
The Russian government is expected to promote various apps such as Yandex, Mail.ru, and Kaspersky Lab.
However, the government said that this could be an issue since some people might think they are in favor of specific online services. This is the reason why Russia wants to expand its list over time.
"The Ministry is not at all interested in seeing popular apps included in the mandatory pre-installation list take dominant positions," said an anonymous Russian official.
"If alternatives emerge on the market, prove interesting to users and gain popularity quickly, they will be included in this selection and also offered for pre-installation," added the government official.
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Written by: Giuliano de Leon.
