Russian banks are looking for ways to return applications to the AppStore

Russian banks have found a new way to return their applications to iPhone devices — under the guise of online games and services with neutral names.

For example, Gazprombank placed the game CashHunter in the App Store, and T-Bank placed the VibroGym App. Both lasted less than a day in the store, but during this time they were downloaded by millions of users.

According to bank representatives, the purpose of the publication is to update the functionality of mobile services for iOS clients, including the return of contactless payment via Bluetooth technology. Previously, a similar solution — the "Vzhuh" application — was tested by Sberbank: in a few hours it was downloaded by 9.5 million people.

Banks are actively seeking to restore access to iPhone owners, who experts call the most solvent audience. According to MTS, in 2025, iPhones will account for only 8% of smartphones sold, but 27% of the market in terms of money.

Some market participants are choosing more sustainable solutions. For example, VTB is developing a web version of VTB Online, which does not require installation and completely replicates the functionality of the application.

Experts note that even a short-term placement in the App Store is economically justified: the cost of publication is minimal, and the benefit from the influx of users is significant.

Read more on the topic:

• T-Bank released a new application in the App Store under the guise of a fitness tracker
• "Vzhuh" Following Sber: T-bank launched contactless payments via iPhone for its clients
• More than 1.6 million Russians used "Vzhuh" for contactless payment via iPhone