Apple has justified its recent removal of independent media apps and VPN services from its Russian App Store, claiming the action was necessary to prevent Russia from completely blocking Apple's services in the country.
Between July and September 2023, Apple quietly removed approximately 60 VPN services from its Russian App Store, bringing the total number of banned VPN apps to 98, according to online censorship monitoring group GreatFire.
When questioned by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), an Apple representative stated the company did not proactively remove the VPN apps. Instead, they explained that failing to follow Russian regulations could result in Apple losing the ability to operate its App Store and distribute content within Russia completely.
The company defended its position by noting that the US government has encouraged tech companies to maintain communication services for Russian users, arguing that access to these services helps promote democratic principles.
Despite Western sanctions, Apple maintains a strong presence in Russia through indirect iPhone imports, capturing 12% of the Russian smartphone market this year. However, RSF criticized Apple's compliance with Russian demands, stating it contradicts the company's 2020 declaration supporting freedom of information.
Beyond VPN services, GreatFine reported that Apple also removed several other apps from its Russian store, including LGBT dating applications and independent news outlets such as The Insider, Meduza, BBC News Russian, Holod, and Ekho Moskvy radio station podcasts.
RSF has called on Apple to take a stronger stance against Russian censorship, expressing concern that the company's actions are limiting Russian citizens' access to independent and reliable information sources.