The Ministry of Digital Development of Russia is pursuing talks with smartphone manufacturers about the feasibility of pre-installing the domestic Russtore app store on devices purchased in Russia, directly at the factory during the production process. This approach has been communicated by Maksut Shadayev, the ministry’s head, according to reports from TASS. The aim is to streamline the user experience by ensuring that new devices arrive with essential Russian software already in place, reducing the need for after-sale setup and ensuring a more integrated ecosystem for Russian users.
“We hope to finalize agreements with device vendors to enable factory pre-installation right from the outset”, the minister stated, emphasizing that the arrangement should occur at the moment of manufacture rather than as a post-purchase modification. The shift is envisioned as a move that could enhance security, improve user convenience, and standardize access to national digital services for everyone who buys a smartphone in the country.
Shadayev also noted potential implications for warranty and privacy. He argued that retailers who unbox devices and install Russtore themselves might inadvertently void warranties or compromise user privacy if the installation is not transparent or properly documented. He suggested that a factory-based approach would mitigate these concerns by ensuring clear, consistent pre-installation protocols and reducing the risk of inadvertent changes to device settings.
The minister expressed optimism that the Ministry of Digital Development could reach agreements with major international manufacturers, including players like Samsung and Apple, as well as other producers not currently engaged in parallel import channels. The proposed model would give manufacturers the option to offer automatic installation of Russian apps when users select the Russian language and region settings during initial device setup. This could foster a more seamless onboarding experience for consumers and bolster the visibility of national software services within the local market.
Historically, the conversation around national software ecosystems has included broad discussions about security, data sovereignty, and consumer choice. In this context, the ministry is examining the balance between facilitating access to Russian applications and preserving user autonomy over device configurations. The overall goal remains to provide a cohesive digital environment that supports local developers and enhances the reliability of services available to residents of Russia.
Formerly Google introduced new android logo. (citation: TASS report on remarks by the Ministry of Digital Development)