Google removes Russia’s Max and VK apps from Play Store

Google Alphabet Inc. ↗ 0.73% has removed the Russian messaging app Max and other applications operated by VK from its Play Store, the company announced on July 16, marking the end of the app's availability on both major Western app marketplaces.

The removal affects Max, VK's flagship social network VKontakte, and Odnoklassniki, according to multiple reports. VK confirmed the apps had disappeared from Google Play, while noting that previously installed applications would continue to function.yahoo+3

A Kremlin-Backed Super App

Max is a state-backed "super app" launched by VK in 2025 and modeled after China's WeChat. It combines messaging, payments, digital identity verification, and access to government services. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed legislation in June 2025 establishing Max as the center of a national digital platform, and since September 2025, the app has come pre-installed on every phone and tablet sold in Russia.russiable

The app has surpassed 100 million registered users, according to VK. Human rights advocates have warned that the system could expand the Russian state's surveillance capabilities.kyivindependent+1

EU Sanctions Preceded Removal

The Google Play removal comes days after the Council of the European Union imposed sanctions on VK on July 13, citing the company's role in developing Max and providing Russian authorities with personal data of users who criticized Russia's war against Ukraine. The EU accused VK of helping facilitate "the Kremlin's repression of civil society".united24media+2

Apple ↗ 2.43% had already removed Max from its App Store on June 3, citing compliance with sanctions, and pulled a broader set of 16 VK applications on June 25. At the time, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that affected users should "switch to Android" — advice that now carries less weight with Google following suit.mezha+3

VK's apps remain available through alternative channels including Russia's own RuStore, Huawei's AppGallery, and direct downloads from VK's websites.russiable