On July 15, the deadline expired that the FAS gave Apple to comply with the requirements of Russian legislation. The company was supposed to remove restrictions for Russian search engines and ensure the pre-installation of domestic software, including "Max" and the app store.
If the order is not fulfilled, the agency may initiate an antitrust case and impose a fine of up to 4 billion rubles. However, experts do not expect an immediate blocking of services, iPhone shutdowns, or a ban on already purchased devices.
Pressure on the corporation is likely to be gradually increased. Device owners have already faced the disabling of Apple Pay, the disappearance of banking applications, and restrictions on certain services.
Against this background, the gray market for paying for the App Store, iCloud, and installing unavailable programs is growing. Its turnover is estimated at approximately 5 billion rubles per year, and the damage from fraudulent schemes is hundreds of millions. Experts consider a complete blocking of Apple unlikely, as it would primarily harm Russian users.
Read more on the topic:
- FAS demands Apple open iOS to Russian search engines and "Max" under threat of 4 billion ruble fine
- Apple explained the removal of VK apps from the App Store by UK sanctions