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ALEXEY DRUZHININ / AFP / GettyImages
- A new Russian law is now in effect that requires devices to have Russian software installed.
- It is intended to allow Russian software companies to compete with foreign ones.
- Some call it a “law against Apple”, although Apple has yielded to the rule.
- See more stories on the Business Insider SA home page.
Russia now requires all smart devices, including smartphones, computers and smart TVs, in the country to be pre-installed with Russian software, in what some locals have called an “anti-Apple law.”
The new one went into effect on Thursday, applying to all devices purchased in the country from that day on.
Reuters noted that Russia sees it as a way to help Russian software companies compete with international ones.
The outlet added that the law had been a problem for Apple, and many in the country called it an “anti-Apple law.”
But Apple agreed last month to allow people to install Russian software when phones are being set up, Reuters reported.
The company said it would offer Russian developer apps to users when they start activating and configuring their new phones, but said all apps are checked to make sure they comply with Apple’s privacy and security policies, Reuters said.
This means that users could choose Russian apps over foreign ones when setting up their devices.
In a tweet on Thursday, an iOS developer named Tian Zhang shared a video of the new setup process.
A screen in the settings now says: “In accordance with Russian legal requirements, please continue to view the applications available for download.”
Tapping “continue” takes the user to a list of Russian-made apps, including several from search giant Yandex.
Russia has been trying to crack down on US tech companies in the country and strengthen its dependence on its government-controlled “sovereign Internet.” Last month Russia slowed down Twitter in response to the company’s refusal to remove various banned content, but that ended up blocking many more domains, including the Kremlin’s website.
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