Russia warns Apple of $52 million fine over alleged discrimination against local software

Russia's antitrust watchdog has issued a warning to Apple, urging the iPhone maker to address what it describes as discriminatory practices against Russian search engines and software.

The regulator said Apple must ensure that Russian software, including domestic search engines and the messaging app Max, is pre-installed on devices sold in the country. It also warned that if the company fails to remedy the alleged violations by July 15, it could face a fine of up to 4 billion roubles (approximately $51.6 million).

The latest warning comes shortly after Apple removed Max, a state-backed messaging app developed by VK, from the App Store, citing compliance with sanctions regulations. Russian authorities have also been pressing Apple to allow third-party app stores—particularly VK's RuStore—on devices sold in the country so users can access applications unavailable through the App Store.

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Separately, Apple had previously removed VK's flagship social network VKontakte—Russia's equivalent of Facebook—along with several other services, including VK Music, VK Messenger, VK Video, Odnoklassniki and Mail.ru applications. At the time, VK said Apple had removed its apps without prior notice or explanation, preventing users from downloading or updating them on Apple devices. The company described the decision as "unmotivated and unacceptable," arguing that it had never been placed under sanctions and had repeatedly provided Apple with legal opinions supporting its position.

Apple has previously removed and later restored some VK applications following international sanctions. The company has also taken down VPN applications from its Russian App Store in response to requests from Russia's internet regulator.