Russia launches messenger app "Max" that could replace WhatsApp

Russia is planning to make a “national messenger” as an alternative to social media apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. Max, a messenger app released earlier this year by the tech giant VK and supported by state media campaigns, seems to be the basis of this service. 

WhatsApp may face a ban in Russia as the Kremlin seeks to exert greater control over the online sphere. This blog explains about Max and what is likely to happen in Russia with the new changes.

About Max

The app was launched in March 2025. It has features similar to those of WhatsApp and Telegram. Max supports business accounts while also trying to become more than just a messaging app. "Friends, hello! I recently downloaded the Max app. And you know what, I was just amazed," said Russian influencer and singer Instasamka in a promotional video. 

Max is promoted as a digital “super app”- a single platform for government and commercial services. The Russian bank has already started using a digital banking platform for customers to book via the travel wing of e-commerce giant Ozon.

Other national apps

Russia’s portal for public services, “Gosuslugi,” will be launched in 2026 with added access to the Central Bank’s Fast Payment System. “Several Asian countries have national or quasi-official messengers: China’s WeChat, Japan’s Line, South Korea’s KakaoTalk, Vietnam’s Zalo, and India’s Sandes,” according to the BBC.

Russian media has termed the app as “the Russian WeChat,” hinting at the Chinese state-backed application that is known as a tool of social control. Max is yet to prove its potential. According to VK, a million people have registered already. Both VK and Telegram have monthly Russian users of around 100 million, according to MediaScope. The app has mixed reviews. It currently has a 4.2 rating on the App Store and 2.4 on Google Play.

According to BBC, “Max is owned by a firm called “Communication Platform,” located in the same Moscow business center as VK. Russian business paper Vedomosti has reported that the two companies are affiliated. VK is ultimately controlled by state energy giant Gazprom.”