Russia's Federal Antimonopoly Service is threatening Apple with a fine of $52 million unless it preinstalls state-backed apps by July 15. This follows allegations of discriminatory practices against Russian software and search engines, occurring after Apple halted product sales in Russia in 2022.
The Federal Antimonopoly Service of Russia has accused Apple of discriminatory practices against local search engines and software. As a result, the company faces a potential fine of 4 billion roubles (approximately $51.6 million) if it does not comply by July 15.
In 2022, Apple ceased official sales in Russia in response to the geopolitical situation following the invasion of Ukraine. However, the new demand requires Apple to preinstall specific Russian apps on devices sold in the country.
This latest demand from Russia follows a similar episode where India required smartphone makers to preinstall a state-backed cybersecurity app, which led to significant backlash and was eventually dropped.
Given Apple's lack of retail presence in Russia, analysts suggest that the company may not be significantly affected by these threats, as most Apple products in Russia are now sourced from the grey market. The consequences of non-compliance remain to be seen.
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Russia's Federal Antimonopoly Service is threatening Apple with a fine of $52 million unless it preinstalls state-backed apps by July 15. This follows allegations of discriminatory practices against Russian software and search engines, occurring after Apple halted product sales in Russia in 2022.