Russia requires phones and devices with Russian software preinstalled



[ad_1]

  • A new Russian law that requires devices to have Russian software installed is now in effect.
  • It aims to allow Russian software publishers to compete with foreign publishers.
  • Some call it a “law against Apple,” although Apple has given in to the rule.
  • See more stories on the Insider business page.

Russia is now requiring all smart devices, including smartphones, computers and smart TVs in the country to be preinstalled with Russian software, in what some locals have called a “law against Apple.”

The new one went into effect on Thursday, applying to all devices purchased in the country from that day.

Reuters noted that Russia sees it as a way to help Russian software companies compete with international companies.

The outlet added that the law had been a problem for Apple, with many in the country calling it a “law against Apple.”

But Apple agreed last month to allow users to install Russian software when configuring phones, Reuters reported.

The company said it would offer apps from Russian developers to users as they start activating and configuring their new phones, but said all apps are checked to make sure they comply. Apple’s privacy and security policies, Reuters said.

This means that users could choose Russian apps over foreign apps when configuring their devices.

Russia has attempted to crack down on US tech companies in the country in recent years and increase the country’s dependence on its own government-controlled “sovereign Internet”. Russia last month slowed down Twitter in response to the company’s refusal to remove various banned content, but it backfired by blocking many other domains, including the Kremlin’s own website.

[ad_2]

Source link