State Duma will oblige Apple to let RuStore on iPhone and iPad

The Russian State Duma has passed in the first reading a bill aimed at eliminating restrictions when installing the Russian RuStore app store on Apple devices. This decision could significantly change the access of Russian users to domestic apps on iPhones and iPads.

The bill was approved by the Russian Duma in the first reading.

Legislative changes and their implications

The adopted bill prohibits restricting the installation of RuStore on all gadgets, including Apple products. If the document passes all necessary stages of approval, Apple will be obliged to provide the possibility of installing third-party app stores for Russian users. This will make it possible to download and use apps from Russian developers that were previously unavailable due to App Store restrictions.

Apple’s position and outlook

One of the authors of the bill, Anton Gorelkin, noted that, according to his information, Apple does not object to the appearance of RuStore on its devices. This may mean that the company is ready to cooperate and adapt its platforms to the new requirements of the Russian legislation.

Impact on users and developers

For Russian users, this means the ability to install applications of their favorite banks and other services directly through RuStore, bypassing App Store restrictions. For developers, this opens up new prospects for distributing their products to a wider audience of Apple device owners in Russia.

Future steps

After finalization, the bill will be sent for a second reading. If finally passed, Apple will be obliged to allow installation of third-party app stores for Russian users and remove restrictions on installing programs from these sources.