Russia bans sales of smartphones without Russian software

Russia has passed a law requiring companies to sell smartphones with Russian software on them. Although they may continue to offer their standard software, Russian variants must be included.

The law is due to come into effect in the middle of next year, and will then apply not only to smartphones, but also to devices such as computers and smart televisions. Proponents of the law say it should promote Russian software development, the BBC reported. That means that European and American companies have to adapt their devices by adding Russian software to them.

It is not necessary to replace the standard software with Russian versions, but the intention is that consumers can choose a Russian alternative. The lawmakers state that many consumers are accustomed to the standard applications on their device and would find it difficult to find alternative software in application stores.

However, critics argue that in many cases it will not be possible to install alternative Russian software, forcing Western companies in particular to leave the Russian market. In doing so, they suggest that this is the main intention of the legislation. In Russia, stricter laws have been passed in recent years to give the government more control over the internet.