Apple has removed Russia’s state-backed messaging app Max from its App Store and cut off push notifications for calls and messages to iPhone users.
Launched in spring 2025 as a domestic alternative to WhatsApp and Telegram, Max has been heavily promoted by authorities as a secure platform and is legally mandated to come pre-installed on all smartphones and computers sold in Russia.
“Max confirms that its app is currently unavailable in the App Store,” the company’s press service told the state-run news agency TASS on Wednesday.
The platform later said that the removal means iPhone users will no longer receive alerts for new messages and calls. “We recommend opening the app manually from time to time so you don’t miss any important messages,” Max advised its users, adding that its internal features otherwise remain fully functional.
The company said it has reached out to Apple to resolve the issue and advised users to download the messenger from alternative app stores or directly from Max’s official website.
