Russia's Federal Antimonopoly Service is threatening Apple with a fine of up to 4 billion roubles, approximately $52 million, unless the company complies with preinstalling Russian apps on devices sold there. The agency accuses Apple of discriminatory practices against Russian search engines and software, setting a July 15 deadline for compliance.

This ultimatum follows a mandate introduced last year requiring phones and tablets to ship with Russia's state-backed MAX messaging app. Apple had previously halted official sales in Russia following the invasion of Ukraine, but the government is now pressuring the company to adhere to domestic software requirements for any devices sold in the country.

The demand comes shortly after Russia requested an explanation from Apple for removing several apps developed by the state-controlled tech company VK from the U.S. App Store. Russia warned that a lack of explanation could impact future cooperation with Apple.

Apple has previously refused similar mandates, such as one from India regarding a cybersecurity app, which was later dropped after public backlash. The company now faces a significant financial penalty if it does not satisfy Russia's app preinstallation demands.