Russia models messenger app on China's WeChat

Russia is looking to China's popular WeChat and Douyin platforms as models for its domestic messenger app, Max. Vladimir Kiriyenko, CEO of VK, stated that the goal is to develop a homegrown alternative to foreign messaging services. This initiative reflects Russia's broader strategy to increase digital self-sufficiency and control over online communication. The development of Max aims to provide a secure and domestically controlled platform for users, potentially reducing reliance on international applications.