A notable figure in the Russian tech policy sphere, German Klimenko, who previously advised the president and chairs the board of the Digital Economy Development Fund, suggested that it could be feasible to disable iPhones for Russian users. He advised preparing for such a development in advance and considering a switch to Android devices. The remarks were given to the Public News Service.
Klimenko explained that the mechanics of such a restriction would not be technically difficult. He indicated that it would be possible to disable software updates for iPhones within Russia, a move that would affect the user experience by curtailing access to the latest features and security improvements.
Turning to Android devices, Klimenko noted that while restrictions could be applied there too, the task would be more challenging. He suggested that a blanket shutdown of Android updates would not be as straightforward as with iOS and raised doubts that the United States would take such an action.
In discussing Android separately, Klimenko pointed out that the Android ecosystem is more complex because the operating system is not solely controlled by Google. He added that any decision to restrict Android would involve additional factors and parties, making a uniform, nationwide ban less predictable. He emphasized that it is unlikely the United States would implement such a measure in the near term.
Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Information Policy Committee Anton Gorelkin stated that there is a possibility that iPhones could be disabled for Russian users as a policy option under certain circumstances. This remark circulated in the context of ongoing debates about digital sovereignty and consumer technology used within the country.
Alexander Khinshtein, who leads the State Duma Information Policy Committee, commented on the notion of banning Russians from using iPhones. He described the scenario as unlikely to develop, signaling that authorities were not actively pursuing such a prohibition at the time of discussion.
The dialogue around Android versus iPhone continues to fuel questions from many Russians about which platform offers the most practical advantages under current and potential future policies. The broader conversation touches on how state policy could shape everyday technology choices in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.