The Russian Ministry of Digital Development has banned mobile billing for Apple services.

Users in Russia who try to pay for apps or services on iPhone via their phone bill are facing the unavailability of this payment method. The Russian Ministry of Digital Development has requested mobile operators, such as MTS, Beeline, T2, and Megafon, to disable the billing payment option in order to limit access to apps that allow bypassing online restrictions imposed by authorities.

This measure affects not only regular users but also developers of iOS and macOS apps who rely on direct payments through Apple ID. The most affected sectors include online commerce, media, education, and financial services. Additionally, Apple has removed hundreds of apps from the App Store in Russia, especially those that provide access to independent information or services to bypass online restrictions. This decision comes amid increasing control over the internet and information in Russia.